1. Tadlock’s Glasses
2. B-Boys In The Cut
3. Make Some Noise
4. Nonstop Disco Powerpack
5. OK
6. Too Many Rappers (featuring NAS)
7. Say It
8. The Bill Harper Collection
9. Don’t Play No Game That I Can’t Win (featuring Santigold)
10. Long Burn The Fire
11. Bundt Cake
12. Funky Donkey
13. Lee Majors Come Again
14. Multilateral Nuclear Disarmament
15. Pop Your Balloon
16. Crazy Ass Shit
17. Here’s A Little Something For Ya
Beastie Boys’ ‘Hot Sauce’ Due Sept. 15 [Billboard]
nahright.com
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
XXLMag.com To Crown King Of The Rap Ring In New Online Battle
In anticipation of EA Sports’ upcoming video game Fight Night Round 4, which hits stores on June 25, XXLMag.com has linked up with the powerhouse videogame company for an exclusive online rap battle.
XXLmag.com will be taking submissions starting today (June 16) until June 23 from aspiring battle rappers. The XXL staff will then select 16 MCs from the pack to duke it out online for a chance to win the title and the prize: a write-up in XXL magazine as well as receive a gift package from EA Sports.
MCs interested in being a part of the battle can send an email to rapbattle@xxlmag.com with two tracks that they feel best showcases their battle rap skills. That’s two tracks, folks, not three, four, or five and so on… Make sure you send the actual MP3s and not links to the tracks or your MySpace page. If you do not follow entry rules you will be disqualified from the competition.
The first showdown is set to premiere on the site on July 6. Fans will pick the winner and who will advance to the next round and there will be four rounds total. The final battle, which will determine who will be crowned champion, will take place on July 24.
For more information on the contest visit xxlmag.com/kingoftherapring starting tomorrow. – Elan Mancini
xxlmag.com
Wale Speaks On New Mixtape, Enlists Beanie Sigel & Slaughterhouse For “Good Ol’-Fashioned Hip-Hop Music”
With Wale’s new mixtape Back To The Feature set for release tomorrow (June 19), XXLMag.com chopped it up with the DC MC about the delay, as well as the collabo-heavy focus on the follow-up to his critically acclaimed Mixtape About Nothing.
“I kinda treat my mixtapes like albums in that I don’t rush ‘em out,” the XXL Freshman alumnus said in regards to the year-long wait for his latest tape.” “You don’t wanna oversaturate, for one. Two, at the same time, I’m working on my debut album, Attention Deficit—I put a lot of energy towards that—as well as a really intricate road show. So a lot of those things were happening and I had just signed my deal—I announced ‘Back To The Feature’ before I signed with Interscope.”
The tape features guest spots from a laundry list of lyricists, such as Bun B, Beanie Sigel, Young Chris, Talib Kweli, Royce Da 5’9, Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz, and Jean Grae. Some include Roc Nation and Allido affiliates but some collabos seemed to come out of left field. “In hip-hop, it’s like artists have a secret world—it’s like a club,” he explained. “There’s a lot of people that don’t like each other and they don’t make it public and it’s not no nobody’s business. There’s a lot of people who are cool with each other who don’t make it public because there’s no need.”
Yet, the rapper didn’t consider any of the high-profile collabos for his upcoming debut studio album. “We knew exactly what it was,” he said. “It ain’t overly thought out like The Mixtape About Nothing. It’s competitive—everybody’s trying to spit. We’re not going at each other or nothing. I texted Royce like, ‘Yo, send me this, but don’t kill me on this joint.’ So I know if I’ma do a record with Royce, I gotta come with it. Or when Joe Budden was in the studio with me, he was like, ‘Yeah, you had me, but I dropped this line so I might’ve got you.’”
“It’s just competition—it’s just what makes hip-hop good,” he continued. “And I think a lot of that went out the window. It ain’t nothing DJs can play in the club. It’s something the DJ wants to go home from the club and want to listen to in his whip just to hear good ol’-fashioned hip-hop music—a little bit of boom-bap, you know.”
Back To The Feature hits the web tomorrow (Friday), with a Twitter listening session hosted by the rapper @Wale. - Devin Chanda
xxlmag.com
“I kinda treat my mixtapes like albums in that I don’t rush ‘em out,” the XXL Freshman alumnus said in regards to the year-long wait for his latest tape.” “You don’t wanna oversaturate, for one. Two, at the same time, I’m working on my debut album, Attention Deficit—I put a lot of energy towards that—as well as a really intricate road show. So a lot of those things were happening and I had just signed my deal—I announced ‘Back To The Feature’ before I signed with Interscope.”
The tape features guest spots from a laundry list of lyricists, such as Bun B, Beanie Sigel, Young Chris, Talib Kweli, Royce Da 5’9, Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz, and Jean Grae. Some include Roc Nation and Allido affiliates but some collabos seemed to come out of left field. “In hip-hop, it’s like artists have a secret world—it’s like a club,” he explained. “There’s a lot of people that don’t like each other and they don’t make it public and it’s not no nobody’s business. There’s a lot of people who are cool with each other who don’t make it public because there’s no need.”
Yet, the rapper didn’t consider any of the high-profile collabos for his upcoming debut studio album. “We knew exactly what it was,” he said. “It ain’t overly thought out like The Mixtape About Nothing. It’s competitive—everybody’s trying to spit. We’re not going at each other or nothing. I texted Royce like, ‘Yo, send me this, but don’t kill me on this joint.’ So I know if I’ma do a record with Royce, I gotta come with it. Or when Joe Budden was in the studio with me, he was like, ‘Yeah, you had me, but I dropped this line so I might’ve got you.’”
“It’s just competition—it’s just what makes hip-hop good,” he continued. “And I think a lot of that went out the window. It ain’t nothing DJs can play in the club. It’s something the DJ wants to go home from the club and want to listen to in his whip just to hear good ol’-fashioned hip-hop music—a little bit of boom-bap, you know.”
Back To The Feature hits the web tomorrow (Friday), with a Twitter listening session hosted by the rapper @Wale. - Devin Chanda
xxlmag.com
A3C Festival Partners With Duck Down, Def Jux
Author: Jake Paine
Urb.com has reported that A3C Festival has announced their first round of label partners for their yearly Atlanta-based Hip Hop showcase. Per the report, respected independent labels Stones Throw, Def Jux and Duck Down have all announced partnership. Babygrande, Tres and others have also been billed to assist.
Other sponsors include Red Bull, Frank151, OkayPlayer and Wax Poetics magazine.
This year's A3C Festival has been moved to East Atlanta Village, and will be held October 1 through October 3. 2008's HipHopDX A3C Wrap-Up can be read.
HipHopDX will keep you updated.
hiphopdx.com
Urb.com has reported that A3C Festival has announced their first round of label partners for their yearly Atlanta-based Hip Hop showcase. Per the report, respected independent labels Stones Throw, Def Jux and Duck Down have all announced partnership. Babygrande, Tres and others have also been billed to assist.
Other sponsors include Red Bull, Frank151, OkayPlayer and Wax Poetics magazine.
This year's A3C Festival has been moved to East Atlanta Village, and will be held October 1 through October 3. 2008's HipHopDX A3C Wrap-Up can be read.
HipHopDX will keep you updated.
hiphopdx.com
Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival Scores Big With Conscious Rap
Author: Salima Koroma
This past Saturday, the 5th annual Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival went down, bringing together some of rap’s most established vets, as well as upcoming and talented rookies. The lineup included acts such as dead prez, Styles P, Pharoahe Monch, Smif N’ Wessun, DJ Premier, J Period, Tanya Morgan, Torae, a special surprise appearance from Black Thought of The Roots, and many others.
To many fans the event is considered conscious Hip Hop’s form of Summer Jam or Rock The Bells and fills the void that the latter events have somewhat neglected, many feel.
"We do it every year because we really feel that Hip Hop needs it” said Executive Director Wes Jackson to LiveSteez.com. “Unless you’re playing Summer Jam or Rock The Bells, there’s really no place that showcases your progressive artists or quality old-school or quality local guys and female artists. For conscious and progressive Hip-Hop, this is the biggest venue that we got and we almost feel like this is our duty to make this thing happen.”
Although the heavy rain may have dulled the mood temporarily, it did not prevent countless fans from attending the eight-hour event, which was held under a tent. Festival attendees watched D-Block member Styles P perform “Get Busy” with Black Thought, while headliner Pharoahe Monch performed widely recognized songs such as “Oh No,” and “Simon Says,” and dead prez shared the stage with DJ Green Lantern performing “Hip Hop” as well as new material.
M-1 of dead prez said of the event, “[The Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival] is where we battle the police and party in peace. We’ve done it all there and cut our teeth in that community and Brooklyn has supported us for years and we’ve helped build with it and help continue this kind of relationship and this festival is in the same spirit of everything else that we do in our way. It’s giving us the opportunity to holler at our folks who we haven’t seen in one summer or so and put our RBG (Revolutionary But Gangsta) on.”
Tickets for the festival were donation-based, and according to the BHHF website, virtually all of the artists performed for free.
hiphopdx.com
This past Saturday, the 5th annual Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival went down, bringing together some of rap’s most established vets, as well as upcoming and talented rookies. The lineup included acts such as dead prez, Styles P, Pharoahe Monch, Smif N’ Wessun, DJ Premier, J Period, Tanya Morgan, Torae, a special surprise appearance from Black Thought of The Roots, and many others.
To many fans the event is considered conscious Hip Hop’s form of Summer Jam or Rock The Bells and fills the void that the latter events have somewhat neglected, many feel.
"We do it every year because we really feel that Hip Hop needs it” said Executive Director Wes Jackson to LiveSteez.com. “Unless you’re playing Summer Jam or Rock The Bells, there’s really no place that showcases your progressive artists or quality old-school or quality local guys and female artists. For conscious and progressive Hip-Hop, this is the biggest venue that we got and we almost feel like this is our duty to make this thing happen.”
Although the heavy rain may have dulled the mood temporarily, it did not prevent countless fans from attending the eight-hour event, which was held under a tent. Festival attendees watched D-Block member Styles P perform “Get Busy” with Black Thought, while headliner Pharoahe Monch performed widely recognized songs such as “Oh No,” and “Simon Says,” and dead prez shared the stage with DJ Green Lantern performing “Hip Hop” as well as new material.
M-1 of dead prez said of the event, “[The Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival] is where we battle the police and party in peace. We’ve done it all there and cut our teeth in that community and Brooklyn has supported us for years and we’ve helped build with it and help continue this kind of relationship and this festival is in the same spirit of everything else that we do in our way. It’s giving us the opportunity to holler at our folks who we haven’t seen in one summer or so and put our RBG (Revolutionary But Gangsta) on.”
Tickets for the festival were donation-based, and according to the BHHF website, virtually all of the artists performed for free.
hiphopdx.com
50 Cent Says He's Still Hungry
Author: Andres Tardio
Part of what made 50 Cent [click to read] popular at the start of his career was his grind. By mixing catchy hooks with street flair, he also flooded the mixtapes with new material at a pace that was almost hard to keep up with. After a few albums, he says he still has that energy and hunger.
"The guy that's trying to get a record deal right now, he should be writing with very strong passion," 50 told MTV [click here]. "Right now, he's in competition with 50 Cent, and I'm writing like I need a record deal. It's tough for him."
His hunger was meant to be shown through War Angel LP, a recent mixtape he dropped. He is presently expected to drop two more mixtapes, the first of which will be titled Sincerely Southside 2. That is slated to to drop next week and the mixtape that will follow in August will be a full G-Unit tape."I can write at that pace and achieve what I want," 50 added. "You won't say there's a lack of quality in [War Angel]. That's why I called it an LP instead of a mixtape. They need to hear that."
He says that fans who have War Angel LP can expect the hardest release of his to date.
"As a full body of work, this is probably one of the hardest CDs. 'Cause I always had something commercial. On 50 Cent is the Future, I had the Raphael Saadiq 'You Should Be Here.' I had the 'Luv U Better' [beat] from LL Cool J's album. It was more of 'She's after my cheddar' from my perspective. It was a record that was working commercially at the time. At this point, I wanted to do something that was commercial-free, a whole CD."
hiphopdx.com
Part of what made 50 Cent [click to read] popular at the start of his career was his grind. By mixing catchy hooks with street flair, he also flooded the mixtapes with new material at a pace that was almost hard to keep up with. After a few albums, he says he still has that energy and hunger.
"The guy that's trying to get a record deal right now, he should be writing with very strong passion," 50 told MTV [click here]. "Right now, he's in competition with 50 Cent, and I'm writing like I need a record deal. It's tough for him."
His hunger was meant to be shown through War Angel LP, a recent mixtape he dropped. He is presently expected to drop two more mixtapes, the first of which will be titled Sincerely Southside 2. That is slated to to drop next week and the mixtape that will follow in August will be a full G-Unit tape."I can write at that pace and achieve what I want," 50 added. "You won't say there's a lack of quality in [War Angel]. That's why I called it an LP instead of a mixtape. They need to hear that."
He says that fans who have War Angel LP can expect the hardest release of his to date.
"As a full body of work, this is probably one of the hardest CDs. 'Cause I always had something commercial. On 50 Cent is the Future, I had the Raphael Saadiq 'You Should Be Here.' I had the 'Luv U Better' [beat] from LL Cool J's album. It was more of 'She's after my cheddar' from my perspective. It was a record that was working commercially at the time. At this point, I wanted to do something that was commercial-free, a whole CD."
hiphopdx.com
Alchemist Brings "Golden Era" Emcees Together On New Album
Author: Sean Ryon
It’s been five long years since the California-born emcee and producer the Alchemist released his debut solo album 1st Infantry. Yet after numerous supposed release dates and producing countless hit records for the likes of Prodigy, Cam’ron and Lil Wayne, the Alchemist is set to return to the frontlines with his sophomore album Chemical Warfare, coming July 7 on E1 Music. He says that while the wait is unfortunate, the end product justifies the means.
“I’ve been working on this record for a while,” noted the producer. “I’m sure we were like ‘the Boy Who Cried Wolf’ with the release dates. Any [later], I was about to get put on the Detox list. So basically, through the long journey, when it was time, I was able to do a lot of records. The good thing about that is that some records that I did a couple of years ago for the album didn’t stand the test of time. Every time you make a song, you ‘re like “This is it. This is going to make the album, this is going to be the first song.’ As time progressed, I guess I was able to shake out the bag and see what stuck, and certain ones just didn’t stand the test of time. Some other ones got better over time. Same shit with beats. I make beats frequently, as you all know. Sometimes, a beat will get better over time. Other ones that I thought were just, ‘This is it, call Jay-Z right now, this is it,’ two to sixth months later, you’re like, ‘Good thing I didn’t call Jay-Z.’ With this album, I guess that’s how it ended up. I’m really happy with how it ended [up], but there were some songs that I thought were definitely going to make it that didn’t.”
Alc says that while Chemical Warfare follows the same format as 1st Infantry, its sound shows a definitive progression. He also describes the challenges of crafting an album like Chemical Warfare in respects to maintaining a sonically cohesive discography.
“Actually, it’s not much of a [change from 1st Infantry],” he noted. “It’s a good progression. It’s great. I listened to 1st Infantry again recently, just sat with it after the album, and I was like ‘Ah, good, alright.” It was a nice progression from [1st Infantry] to [Chemical Warfare], for a lack of a more descriptive and exciting way to put it. It is [an album] that reflects the time now."
He then added, “Let’s say I’m working on an album with Prodigy…there’s a certain zone that I go to and it’s like a mentality and we’re talking about things everyday, watching certain movies, listening to records. That [experience] was like the input goes towards one direction. When I do an album [like Chemical Warfare], what do Eminem, Kool G. Rap, Juvenile, Blu and Maxwell have in common? Nothing, and I’m putting them on the same playing ground. It’s always a challenge when you’re doing an album like this to make it play from beginning to end and not make it sound a little crunchy. I feel like I’ve got to be…the string that ties all of these funky Hip Hop guys together.”
Like 1st Infantry, Chemical Warfare boasts upward of 20 guest artists, from the street-tested Jadakiss, to west coast up-and-comer Blu, to even former Cash Money artist Juvenile. Yet the Alchemist says that the process of choosing which songs would make the cut was something of a musical natural selection. As opposed to pick-and-choose
“I was conscious of a lot of things when it came to this album, but it was more about the final selection of records,” he noted. “It wasn’t like I had all of these names on a list and threw them in a hat and shook them up and I was like, ‘These are all going to be on these songs and these are the guys that I want and these are the beats.’ It was much more spontaneous and natural thing of working for three years. In the end, when it came time to pick, I really just selected based on…[a] more sound-driven [urge] than lyrics-driven as far as what made the cut.”
In a divergence from 1st Infantry, Chemical Warfare finds the Alchemist expanding his repertoire working with so-called “golden age” emcees like Kool G. Rap and KRS-One. The producer went to describe the experience of working with such legendary rappers.
“[Those types of artists] have got this golden sound that’s just so golden and shiny,” explained the producer. “I was like, ‘Let’s go back to the golden age of Hip-Hop and pick out…a golden, shiny specimen of Hip Hop,’ like a real, real, real chachkied-up rapper. So I got Kool G. Rap’s number, and I was like ‘Now this guy is golden. I didn’t even think about it. I guess I’m from that era. I really just thought about guys who I loved, like [rappers] who I would’ve been ecstatic to have on my album.”
He then jokingly added, “I was being selfish and really fucking greedy I guess, because I really didn’t think about…anyone else. I really was like, ‘Hey, fuck all of them. Who do I want to hear on this album?’ [It’s a] very selfish, self-centered way of producing. [Laughs] But anyways, basically, a guy like KRS-One, how could I not? KRS-One? Shit…I gladly can say in 2009, I have a song with KRS-One on my album, and it’s crazy."
Another noticeable feature of the Alchemist’s recent work, in particular on the few song leaks form Chemical Warfare, is his use of percussive, MPC-made synth beats. He describes how he developed this specific style of production and how he feels it is unique to his production.
“Just on some real, real, nerdy producer shit, I felt like people already knew my sound at this point and the samples I use, [like] ‘Oh yeah, I know Alc’s beats,’” said the Alchemist. “I felt like I wanted to do a step [in a different direction]. Let’s put it this way, I started fucking with the MPC more, and if you listen to 'Wet Wipes' [by Cam’ron], you can tell it wasn’t a sample. It was just taking little sounds and playing them. Basically, I started doing a couple of beats like this. 'You Ain't Got Nuthin'' on [Lil] Wayne’s album was like that, too. I started taking little pieces, chopping them…and moving them like hi-hats. I don’t know if anybody else would get that or understand it, but instead of moving a bunch of hi-hats around…I was moving around chops. All of a sudden, by pitching up certain loops and chopping them to little pieces and moving them like that, they almost had a percussion feel. It was like I don’t even need to lace this with all of these hi-hats because I like the boom-bap anyways, sometimes too much hi-hats throws me off. So it was like, ‘Ah, this is a new style I’m stepping into,’ and I made a bunch of beats like that. There’s a beat that’s on Raekwon’s new album [Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II] that’s also the same technique where I felt like, it might have just been in my weirdo head, but it was like I was starting a new sound…like when Large Professor came out and killed three bass lines, it was like you knew at that moment, it was a technique.”
Even after Chemical Warfare is unleashed upon the public, Alc plans to keep busy with his upcoming collaborative project Gangrene with fellow Californian rapper/producer Oh No. He explained how the project came about and how the two musicians first met.
“Gangrene [with Oh No] is up next, simply because it’s ready to go,” said the Alchemist. “Me and Oh did the project mad fast. It was more like a collaborative thing…I didn’t even know Oh that well and we came up with the idea, and every pitch he said to me or any pitch I said to him, it was getting hit, no question. Everything was a challenge, everything was exciting and it got done fast. [The] Gangrene album is like a zone. It’s just like the name ‘gangrene.’ It’s like a disease, some sick shit. It’s dark. It’s both me and [Oh No] on the beats, but it’s the type of beats you wouldn’t expect from me. It’s just a fucking zone, man. I love the Gangrene album.”
He added, “[Oh No] opened up for Evidence [of Dilated Peoples] one night in L.A., and I was actually trying to get in touch with Madlib at the time. I saw Oh at the show, and I was like, ‘Oh shit, I didn’t even realize that was Madlib’s brother’… afterwards, we were just smoking, and I was like ‘This guy smokes as much as me, maybe more.’ After like the seventh or eighth blunt, he gave me a CD and said he had just put out this instrumental joint and that maybe we should do something. I listened to the beats and they were just crazy. So I get on my email, maybe a week later, and it was a song from Oh No. I played it, and he was rhyming on it and shouted me out…it inspired me to make a beat that same night. I sent him back the song with another beat and I laid a verse to it, like ‘Let’s go.’ He sent that shit back to me in like 20 minutes with his verse on it. We just started competing, just frisbee after frisbee.”
hiphopdx.com
It’s been five long years since the California-born emcee and producer the Alchemist released his debut solo album 1st Infantry. Yet after numerous supposed release dates and producing countless hit records for the likes of Prodigy, Cam’ron and Lil Wayne, the Alchemist is set to return to the frontlines with his sophomore album Chemical Warfare, coming July 7 on E1 Music. He says that while the wait is unfortunate, the end product justifies the means.
“I’ve been working on this record for a while,” noted the producer. “I’m sure we were like ‘the Boy Who Cried Wolf’ with the release dates. Any [later], I was about to get put on the Detox list. So basically, through the long journey, when it was time, I was able to do a lot of records. The good thing about that is that some records that I did a couple of years ago for the album didn’t stand the test of time. Every time you make a song, you ‘re like “This is it. This is going to make the album, this is going to be the first song.’ As time progressed, I guess I was able to shake out the bag and see what stuck, and certain ones just didn’t stand the test of time. Some other ones got better over time. Same shit with beats. I make beats frequently, as you all know. Sometimes, a beat will get better over time. Other ones that I thought were just, ‘This is it, call Jay-Z right now, this is it,’ two to sixth months later, you’re like, ‘Good thing I didn’t call Jay-Z.’ With this album, I guess that’s how it ended up. I’m really happy with how it ended [up], but there were some songs that I thought were definitely going to make it that didn’t.”
Alc says that while Chemical Warfare follows the same format as 1st Infantry, its sound shows a definitive progression. He also describes the challenges of crafting an album like Chemical Warfare in respects to maintaining a sonically cohesive discography.
“Actually, it’s not much of a [change from 1st Infantry],” he noted. “It’s a good progression. It’s great. I listened to 1st Infantry again recently, just sat with it after the album, and I was like ‘Ah, good, alright.” It was a nice progression from [1st Infantry] to [Chemical Warfare], for a lack of a more descriptive and exciting way to put it. It is [an album] that reflects the time now."
He then added, “Let’s say I’m working on an album with Prodigy…there’s a certain zone that I go to and it’s like a mentality and we’re talking about things everyday, watching certain movies, listening to records. That [experience] was like the input goes towards one direction. When I do an album [like Chemical Warfare], what do Eminem, Kool G. Rap, Juvenile, Blu and Maxwell have in common? Nothing, and I’m putting them on the same playing ground. It’s always a challenge when you’re doing an album like this to make it play from beginning to end and not make it sound a little crunchy. I feel like I’ve got to be…the string that ties all of these funky Hip Hop guys together.”
Like 1st Infantry, Chemical Warfare boasts upward of 20 guest artists, from the street-tested Jadakiss, to west coast up-and-comer Blu, to even former Cash Money artist Juvenile. Yet the Alchemist says that the process of choosing which songs would make the cut was something of a musical natural selection. As opposed to pick-and-choose
“I was conscious of a lot of things when it came to this album, but it was more about the final selection of records,” he noted. “It wasn’t like I had all of these names on a list and threw them in a hat and shook them up and I was like, ‘These are all going to be on these songs and these are the guys that I want and these are the beats.’ It was much more spontaneous and natural thing of working for three years. In the end, when it came time to pick, I really just selected based on…[a] more sound-driven [urge] than lyrics-driven as far as what made the cut.”
In a divergence from 1st Infantry, Chemical Warfare finds the Alchemist expanding his repertoire working with so-called “golden age” emcees like Kool G. Rap and KRS-One. The producer went to describe the experience of working with such legendary rappers.
“[Those types of artists] have got this golden sound that’s just so golden and shiny,” explained the producer. “I was like, ‘Let’s go back to the golden age of Hip-Hop and pick out…a golden, shiny specimen of Hip Hop,’ like a real, real, real chachkied-up rapper. So I got Kool G. Rap’s number, and I was like ‘Now this guy is golden. I didn’t even think about it. I guess I’m from that era. I really just thought about guys who I loved, like [rappers] who I would’ve been ecstatic to have on my album.”
He then jokingly added, “I was being selfish and really fucking greedy I guess, because I really didn’t think about…anyone else. I really was like, ‘Hey, fuck all of them. Who do I want to hear on this album?’ [It’s a] very selfish, self-centered way of producing. [Laughs] But anyways, basically, a guy like KRS-One, how could I not? KRS-One? Shit…I gladly can say in 2009, I have a song with KRS-One on my album, and it’s crazy."
Another noticeable feature of the Alchemist’s recent work, in particular on the few song leaks form Chemical Warfare, is his use of percussive, MPC-made synth beats. He describes how he developed this specific style of production and how he feels it is unique to his production.
“Just on some real, real, nerdy producer shit, I felt like people already knew my sound at this point and the samples I use, [like] ‘Oh yeah, I know Alc’s beats,’” said the Alchemist. “I felt like I wanted to do a step [in a different direction]. Let’s put it this way, I started fucking with the MPC more, and if you listen to 'Wet Wipes' [by Cam’ron], you can tell it wasn’t a sample. It was just taking little sounds and playing them. Basically, I started doing a couple of beats like this. 'You Ain't Got Nuthin'' on [Lil] Wayne’s album was like that, too. I started taking little pieces, chopping them…and moving them like hi-hats. I don’t know if anybody else would get that or understand it, but instead of moving a bunch of hi-hats around…I was moving around chops. All of a sudden, by pitching up certain loops and chopping them to little pieces and moving them like that, they almost had a percussion feel. It was like I don’t even need to lace this with all of these hi-hats because I like the boom-bap anyways, sometimes too much hi-hats throws me off. So it was like, ‘Ah, this is a new style I’m stepping into,’ and I made a bunch of beats like that. There’s a beat that’s on Raekwon’s new album [Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II] that’s also the same technique where I felt like, it might have just been in my weirdo head, but it was like I was starting a new sound…like when Large Professor came out and killed three bass lines, it was like you knew at that moment, it was a technique.”
Even after Chemical Warfare is unleashed upon the public, Alc plans to keep busy with his upcoming collaborative project Gangrene with fellow Californian rapper/producer Oh No. He explained how the project came about and how the two musicians first met.
“Gangrene [with Oh No] is up next, simply because it’s ready to go,” said the Alchemist. “Me and Oh did the project mad fast. It was more like a collaborative thing…I didn’t even know Oh that well and we came up with the idea, and every pitch he said to me or any pitch I said to him, it was getting hit, no question. Everything was a challenge, everything was exciting and it got done fast. [The] Gangrene album is like a zone. It’s just like the name ‘gangrene.’ It’s like a disease, some sick shit. It’s dark. It’s both me and [Oh No] on the beats, but it’s the type of beats you wouldn’t expect from me. It’s just a fucking zone, man. I love the Gangrene album.”
He added, “[Oh No] opened up for Evidence [of Dilated Peoples] one night in L.A., and I was actually trying to get in touch with Madlib at the time. I saw Oh at the show, and I was like, ‘Oh shit, I didn’t even realize that was Madlib’s brother’… afterwards, we were just smoking, and I was like ‘This guy smokes as much as me, maybe more.’ After like the seventh or eighth blunt, he gave me a CD and said he had just put out this instrumental joint and that maybe we should do something. I listened to the beats and they were just crazy. So I get on my email, maybe a week later, and it was a song from Oh No. I played it, and he was rhyming on it and shouted me out…it inspired me to make a beat that same night. I sent him back the song with another beat and I laid a verse to it, like ‘Let’s go.’ He sent that shit back to me in like 20 minutes with his verse on it. We just started competing, just frisbee after frisbee.”
hiphopdx.com
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Ras Kass Out Of Jail, Back To Rap
By Tai Saint Louis
Approximately one month after his release from prison, West Coast lyricist Ras Kass is ready to get back to work, he told AllHipHop.com in a recent interview.
But his new direction may surprise some of his fans.
The former Capitol Records artist, born John Austin IV, was arrested in October 2007, reportedly for violating the terms of his probation for a previous arrest, by appearing at the BET Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta.
While he would not speak about the circumstances that lead to this most recent arrest, Ras Kass was very candid about the recent adjustments he’s had to make.
“I’m kinda numb, evidently happier and appreciative,” Ras Kass told AllHipHop.com. “Any situation where you’re removed from day-to-day normality, you have to get used to it. The adjustments are everything. It’s sensory overload, especially in respect to where I just came from, where everything is regimented.
“[But] It’s a time when you just gotta grow up, in whatever respect it is. So it’s certain things I can and cannot do. Ninety percent of it is recognizing that. The other ten percent is putting it into action.”
Ras Kass said he took advantage of his two-year sentence to study the business side of the game.
His motivation for such research, he explained, was the disparity between his level of talent and his level of success as he sees it.
“My whole thing was sitting back and doing a lot of third-person critiquing of Ras Kass,” the rapper recounted. “'He’s probably arguably in my opinion, one of the greatest lyricist that has many a time been swept under the rug by the music business. Part of the problem that has held Ras Kass back is having the right team, the right marketing, the right company behind him for him to be able to do the same things as other talented people such as Outkast or TI or Nas or Jay-Z or Eminem. Talented people who make it to the next level.’”
“My thing was, I don’t need to write a rap. I’m good at that. That’s not the issue,” the lyricist continued. “So I wanted to focus on the business. Imma probably do online just to get acclimated. And it’s not like I can’t record during that time, but my focus is the business and putting the right team together.”
Ras Kass is also undertaking a great challenge in his personal life: seeking a college degree, something he’s been wanting to do for nearly a decade.
Apparently, he and rapper Xzibit had discussed the idea of not only going through the experience together, but also documenting it, even before the advent of reality TV.
The likeliness that Ras Kass’ college experience will become must-see-tv is unlikely, however, as he says he’s in it for the education at this point.
He reassures his fans that none of this means he is retiring from rapping.
“It’s my passion,” he asserted. “I’m not retired, it’s just I have to reassess, even before this situation happened, what needs to be done. Some of my s**t, [people] are just gonna have to rediscover it. If we talking about body of work, as a solo artist, 16 bars, three verses per song: dude, I’ve said some s**t! And I don’t get the same credit that the more known people get. The goal is 90% business and 10% music. If the business isn’t right, the music’s always gonna suffer.”
A full Q&A with Ras Kass will run on AllHipHop.com shortly.
allhiphop.com
Wendy Day Launches Company To 'Incubate' Urban Labels
By Chris Richburg
Aspiring music industry professionals will get a well-established helping hand in their quest for success from Rap Coalition founder Wendy Day.
Day’s assistance will come courtesy of Indie Label Builder, a new consulting company designed to work with clients in finding ways to sell their music and establish their own record label.
According to Day, the venture serves as an "incubator" to lay the groundwork for a successful stint in the music world, by utilizing the company’s expertise in launching labels and artists in a competitive field.
“The cool thing about incubating labels is that the success rate of urban indies will skyrocket,” Wendy Day told AllHipHop.com. “There has never been a better time in the history of the music business to start a record label. The internet leveled the playing field, the majors had to open their system of distribution to indies in order to remain afloat financially, and the barrier to entry is quite low--anyone can start a label.”
Services offered by Indie Label Builder include planning, organization, promotions, set up and company structuring.
The company also offers day-to-day assistance in regards to tax structure and payments, marketing plans, budgets, selling CDs and digital downloads and obtaining proper contracts for artists and producers.
“Indies no longer have to learn by trial and error, or lose money from trusting the wrong people,” Wendy Day continued. “This is like hiring a General Manager with experience and a track record of success to oversee and run your label, while teaching your staff, for a fraction of the price. And on Indie Label Builder's side of the business, we get to incubate and grow numerous successful labels each year. It's like what I have been doing for the past 15 years, but on turbo boost! I'm so excited about this.”
In addition to the Rap Coalition, the writer/business woman made a name for herself while managing the careers of rappers such as Slick Rick, Twista, Ras Kass, Cash Money Records, David Banner and others.
With her latest venture, Day is looking to provide equal footing for those who have encountered roadblocks on their way to garnering success.
“You can expect a nurturing environment where they can build and run their companies under the guidance of someone with my experience, expertise, and track record--for less than you'd pay an employee."
allhiphop.com
Aspiring music industry professionals will get a well-established helping hand in their quest for success from Rap Coalition founder Wendy Day.
Day’s assistance will come courtesy of Indie Label Builder, a new consulting company designed to work with clients in finding ways to sell their music and establish their own record label.
According to Day, the venture serves as an "incubator" to lay the groundwork for a successful stint in the music world, by utilizing the company’s expertise in launching labels and artists in a competitive field.
“The cool thing about incubating labels is that the success rate of urban indies will skyrocket,” Wendy Day told AllHipHop.com. “There has never been a better time in the history of the music business to start a record label. The internet leveled the playing field, the majors had to open their system of distribution to indies in order to remain afloat financially, and the barrier to entry is quite low--anyone can start a label.”
Services offered by Indie Label Builder include planning, organization, promotions, set up and company structuring.
The company also offers day-to-day assistance in regards to tax structure and payments, marketing plans, budgets, selling CDs and digital downloads and obtaining proper contracts for artists and producers.
“Indies no longer have to learn by trial and error, or lose money from trusting the wrong people,” Wendy Day continued. “This is like hiring a General Manager with experience and a track record of success to oversee and run your label, while teaching your staff, for a fraction of the price. And on Indie Label Builder's side of the business, we get to incubate and grow numerous successful labels each year. It's like what I have been doing for the past 15 years, but on turbo boost! I'm so excited about this.”
In addition to the Rap Coalition, the writer/business woman made a name for herself while managing the careers of rappers such as Slick Rick, Twista, Ras Kass, Cash Money Records, David Banner and others.
With her latest venture, Day is looking to provide equal footing for those who have encountered roadblocks on their way to garnering success.
“You can expect a nurturing environment where they can build and run their companies under the guidance of someone with my experience, expertise, and track record--for less than you'd pay an employee."
allhiphop.com
Timbaland Accused Of Stealing Beats
Author: Salima Koroma
Kernel Records, a music label based in Finland, has filed a lawsuit against acclaimed music producer Timbaland and Pop singer Nelly Furtado, claiming that the two stole elements from a song previously recorded by Finnish artists in order to create the song "Do It." Produced by Timbaland and written by Furtado, the song appeared on the singer's third album Loose in '06, which also featured hit singles such as "Promiscuous" and "Say It Right."
The Finnish record company alleges that production from "Do It" was taken from "Acidjazzed Evening," a song originally recorded in 2000 by composer Janne Suni. According to Kernel Records, Timbaland "knowingly and willfully stole" the song.
In 2007, controversy arose when the first of several independent producers accused Timbaland of plagiarism via YouTube, using video evidence. Coincidentally, the production of "Do It" was also cited as being stolen work.
During the same year, Timbaland reacted to the accusations of plagiarism:
“That mess is so ridiculous," he told Maryland-based radio show Elliot in the Morning. " I can’t really discuss it because it’s a legal matter. But that’s why people don’t believe it. It’s from a video game, idiot. Sample and stole is two different things. Stole is like I walked in your house, watched you make it, stole your protools, went to my house and told Nelly, ‘Hey, I got a great song for you.’ Sample is like you heard it somewhere, and you just sampled. Maybe you didn’t know who it was by because it don’t have the credits listed.”
Because, as he claims, he heard it from a video game, he did not consider the possibility of a lawsuit, as he believed that the sample was public domain.
According to AllHipHop.com, Kernel Records is suing Mosley Music, LLC, and Geffen Records, requesting that the release, performance, reprinting, and sale of "Do It" be prohibited.
hiphopdx.com
Kernel Records, a music label based in Finland, has filed a lawsuit against acclaimed music producer Timbaland and Pop singer Nelly Furtado, claiming that the two stole elements from a song previously recorded by Finnish artists in order to create the song "Do It." Produced by Timbaland and written by Furtado, the song appeared on the singer's third album Loose in '06, which also featured hit singles such as "Promiscuous" and "Say It Right."
The Finnish record company alleges that production from "Do It" was taken from "Acidjazzed Evening," a song originally recorded in 2000 by composer Janne Suni. According to Kernel Records, Timbaland "knowingly and willfully stole" the song.
In 2007, controversy arose when the first of several independent producers accused Timbaland of plagiarism via YouTube, using video evidence. Coincidentally, the production of "Do It" was also cited as being stolen work.
During the same year, Timbaland reacted to the accusations of plagiarism:
“That mess is so ridiculous," he told Maryland-based radio show Elliot in the Morning. " I can’t really discuss it because it’s a legal matter. But that’s why people don’t believe it. It’s from a video game, idiot. Sample and stole is two different things. Stole is like I walked in your house, watched you make it, stole your protools, went to my house and told Nelly, ‘Hey, I got a great song for you.’ Sample is like you heard it somewhere, and you just sampled. Maybe you didn’t know who it was by because it don’t have the credits listed.”
Because, as he claims, he heard it from a video game, he did not consider the possibility of a lawsuit, as he believed that the sample was public domain.
According to AllHipHop.com, Kernel Records is suing Mosley Music, LLC, and Geffen Records, requesting that the release, performance, reprinting, and sale of "Do It" be prohibited.
hiphopdx.com
Joe Budden To Release Another Album In 2009
Author: Danielle Harling
Although his sophomore album Padded Room [click to read] was released only months ago rapper Joe Budden [click to read] is already preparing for the release of his third album.
Entitled The Great Escape, Budden’s upcoming album will complete Budden’s concept trilogy which so far includes Halfway House and Padded Room.
The Great Escape will be preceded by Escape Route a digital-only release that will be available exclusively on Amalgam Digital’s Website.
Although released independently Padded Room proved to be quite a success debuting at #42 on the Billboard Top 200 Charts.
Padded Room also marked Budden’s first studio album to be released through Amalgam Digital a Hip Hop digital store and record label whose artists also include Saigon [click to read], Donny Goines, Termanology, and more.
As far as release dates The Great Escape will be released on October 13 and Escape Route will be released digitally in July.
hiphopdx.com
Wale Discusses Back To The Feature, 9th Wonder
Author: Jake Paine
For a relative newcomer in mainstream Hip Hop, Wale [click to read] is widely revered as maker of some of the genre's most exciting mixtapes. From his 2007 100 Miles & Running to 2008's Mixtape About Nothing [click to listen] (both mixed by Nick Catchdubs), Wale has bettered his peers with both dynamic beats and consistent topics. This Friday marks Back To The Feature, the third in the yearly efforts, this time with the bulk of beats supplied by Grammy Award-winning North Carolina-based producer 9th Wonder.
Despite its name and cover art, yesterday Wale was quick to wave off the tape as any connection to Steven Spielberg's 1985 blockbuster. "It has nothing to do [with the film]," he told HipHopDX. "A Mixtape About Nothing was designed to be a [dedication to Seinfeld]; this is just collaborative Hip Hop. This is just rappers rapping together. [Laughs] It's not even designed to be critically-acclaimed, like I [expected] with A Mixtape About Nothing." Wale said the purpose is simple, "It's just for your listening pleasure. That's all I want it to be - nothing more, nothing less."
The Friday release features Jean Grae, K'naan, Royce Da 5'9", Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden, Black Thought, Peedi Crakk, Bun B, among an extensive list of others.
Each appearance has a role. Jean Grae's feature, a song called "Goodbye," imagines a break-up between the two Rap artists. "It's one them songs, man. You go through things in your life...I'm painting the picture of me breakin' up, and she's [explaining] 'This is why we gotta break-up.'"
With the album's theme, Wale believes that collaboration drives the market today. "I think people have let features and cosigns run Hip Hop." Still, he doesn't feel as fondly about cosigns as he does traditional collaboration. "Anybody who knows me and knows the newer [group of] rappers knows that I don't have that major cosign. I haven't been fortunate enough to go on tour with anybody and things of that nature. All those dudes, I support [and appreciate] what they're doing, but my thing is different." Even as an artist signed to super-producer Mark Ronson's Alido Records, Wale admits that such assistance doesn't impress the typical Hip Hop listener, "Mark Ronson is something different. It's not like people are checkin' for me 'cause of Mark; I didn't get Mark's fan-base. Hip Hop is too heavy on co-signs. It's too much! Certain co-signs can just jump-start a career, and I don't think it should be like that. I think it should be more about the music."
Although the guest artist fuels the theme of Back To The Feature, don't expect to see this translate into the personnel for Attention: Deficit, the DMV rapper's debut album. "On my album, I only have Bun B and K'Naan on there. I just kept that [list] real short with the features, as far as the rappers go. I don't count somebody singin' as a feature, 'cause I can't sing," Wale told DX. The album is due in the third quarter of 2009, on Alido/Interscope.
Known for working with an assortment of sounds and producers, Wale also told DX about the significance of him now working with the Murs, Jay-Z and Erykah Badu producer. "I just wanted to have the traditional 9th Wonder sound, to kind of show my diversity. 9th is someone that I definitely think is one of the greats. I wanted to show people how I could rock on [some] of his [beats]. At the same time, I'm giving a little bit of light to newer producers I'm workin' with." Back To The Feature also includes beats by BKS, Mikey Mike and Mark Ronson. "9th Wonder is the meat and potatoes of the mixtape, the focal point. I got 11 9th Wonder songs on there; I got 12 from [others]."
Wale further explained where Back To The Feature fits in his mixtape catalog, which also boasts early work, Paint A Picture and Hate Is The New Love, "My manager (Daniel Weisman) wrote me a whole write-up of the mixtape, and he basically said this mixtape is just like 100 Miles & Running, but with features. He [said] that A Mixtape About Nothing was too intense, too powerful, too aggressively intense. This one is laid back Hip Hop [where you can] roll a J or whatever you want to do. Sit back, relax and listen to it. And I hope you like it."
Wale's Twitter is @WaleDC and more information about downloading Friday's mixtape can be found at WaleMusic.com.
hiphopdx.com
For a relative newcomer in mainstream Hip Hop, Wale [click to read] is widely revered as maker of some of the genre's most exciting mixtapes. From his 2007 100 Miles & Running to 2008's Mixtape About Nothing [click to listen] (both mixed by Nick Catchdubs), Wale has bettered his peers with both dynamic beats and consistent topics. This Friday marks Back To The Feature, the third in the yearly efforts, this time with the bulk of beats supplied by Grammy Award-winning North Carolina-based producer 9th Wonder.
Despite its name and cover art, yesterday Wale was quick to wave off the tape as any connection to Steven Spielberg's 1985 blockbuster. "It has nothing to do [with the film]," he told HipHopDX. "A Mixtape About Nothing was designed to be a [dedication to Seinfeld]; this is just collaborative Hip Hop. This is just rappers rapping together. [Laughs] It's not even designed to be critically-acclaimed, like I [expected] with A Mixtape About Nothing." Wale said the purpose is simple, "It's just for your listening pleasure. That's all I want it to be - nothing more, nothing less."
The Friday release features Jean Grae, K'naan, Royce Da 5'9", Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden, Black Thought, Peedi Crakk, Bun B, among an extensive list of others.
Each appearance has a role. Jean Grae's feature, a song called "Goodbye," imagines a break-up between the two Rap artists. "It's one them songs, man. You go through things in your life...I'm painting the picture of me breakin' up, and she's [explaining] 'This is why we gotta break-up.'"
With the album's theme, Wale believes that collaboration drives the market today. "I think people have let features and cosigns run Hip Hop." Still, he doesn't feel as fondly about cosigns as he does traditional collaboration. "Anybody who knows me and knows the newer [group of] rappers knows that I don't have that major cosign. I haven't been fortunate enough to go on tour with anybody and things of that nature. All those dudes, I support [and appreciate] what they're doing, but my thing is different." Even as an artist signed to super-producer Mark Ronson's Alido Records, Wale admits that such assistance doesn't impress the typical Hip Hop listener, "Mark Ronson is something different. It's not like people are checkin' for me 'cause of Mark; I didn't get Mark's fan-base. Hip Hop is too heavy on co-signs. It's too much! Certain co-signs can just jump-start a career, and I don't think it should be like that. I think it should be more about the music."
Although the guest artist fuels the theme of Back To The Feature, don't expect to see this translate into the personnel for Attention: Deficit, the DMV rapper's debut album. "On my album, I only have Bun B and K'Naan on there. I just kept that [list] real short with the features, as far as the rappers go. I don't count somebody singin' as a feature, 'cause I can't sing," Wale told DX. The album is due in the third quarter of 2009, on Alido/Interscope.
Known for working with an assortment of sounds and producers, Wale also told DX about the significance of him now working with the Murs, Jay-Z and Erykah Badu producer. "I just wanted to have the traditional 9th Wonder sound, to kind of show my diversity. 9th is someone that I definitely think is one of the greats. I wanted to show people how I could rock on [some] of his [beats]. At the same time, I'm giving a little bit of light to newer producers I'm workin' with." Back To The Feature also includes beats by BKS, Mikey Mike and Mark Ronson. "9th Wonder is the meat and potatoes of the mixtape, the focal point. I got 11 9th Wonder songs on there; I got 12 from [others]."
Wale further explained where Back To The Feature fits in his mixtape catalog, which also boasts early work, Paint A Picture and Hate Is The New Love, "My manager (Daniel Weisman) wrote me a whole write-up of the mixtape, and he basically said this mixtape is just like 100 Miles & Running, but with features. He [said] that A Mixtape About Nothing was too intense, too powerful, too aggressively intense. This one is laid back Hip Hop [where you can] roll a J or whatever you want to do. Sit back, relax and listen to it. And I hope you like it."
Wale's Twitter is @WaleDC and more information about downloading Friday's mixtape can be found at WaleMusic.com.
hiphopdx.com
Alchemist Reveals Carter 3 Song Meant For His LP, “They Cut Me A Check For $350K”
With The Alchemist’s sophomore LP Chemical Warfare hitting stores next month, XXLMag.com caught up with the producer to speak on the disc, and one track in particular that didn’t make the final cut.
It turns out that “You Ain’t Got Nuthin” from Lil Wayne’s multi-platinum Tha Carter III - which also features Fabolous and Juelz Santana - was originally supposed to be on Alc’s album. In fact the Beverly Hills-bred beatmaker wasn’t initially thrilled about losing the song.
“I’m gonna keep it real,” he revealed to XXL. “At first, I was angry. Just the stubborn, dumb rapper/producer guy. Like, ‘Nah, son, I’m making an album! You’re pulling my arm out of my body! This is a finger on my body and you’re making the body incomplete.’ But there was an artist who shall remain nameless who was with me at the time who was like, ‘Shit, if you don’t wanna use that shit, I will!’”
Al sent the track to Weezy, hoping to get a hook, but instead the New Orleans superstar had other plans in mind. “At first the record was done without Wayne and then we sent to Wayne to get the hook on it and it came back with his verse,” Alc explained. “At first, with the whole effect on the voice, I wasn’t crazy about it—not that I’m against it, I just don’t know if that’s how I heard it on the record. It worked out. Hallelujah.”
Al was in turn compensated nicely for his work behind the boards. “[Universal] cut me a check that was $350 grand,” he said. “I’m chillin now. Thanks, baby!”
Chemical Warfare, which features cameos from Eminem, Jadakiss, Pusha T, Blu, Lady Of Rage, Kool G Rap, Prodigy, Three 6 Mafia and Juvenile, among others, hits stores on July 7 via E1 music. – Adam Fleischer
xxlmag.com
It turns out that “You Ain’t Got Nuthin” from Lil Wayne’s multi-platinum Tha Carter III - which also features Fabolous and Juelz Santana - was originally supposed to be on Alc’s album. In fact the Beverly Hills-bred beatmaker wasn’t initially thrilled about losing the song.
“I’m gonna keep it real,” he revealed to XXL. “At first, I was angry. Just the stubborn, dumb rapper/producer guy. Like, ‘Nah, son, I’m making an album! You’re pulling my arm out of my body! This is a finger on my body and you’re making the body incomplete.’ But there was an artist who shall remain nameless who was with me at the time who was like, ‘Shit, if you don’t wanna use that shit, I will!’”
Al sent the track to Weezy, hoping to get a hook, but instead the New Orleans superstar had other plans in mind. “At first the record was done without Wayne and then we sent to Wayne to get the hook on it and it came back with his verse,” Alc explained. “At first, with the whole effect on the voice, I wasn’t crazy about it—not that I’m against it, I just don’t know if that’s how I heard it on the record. It worked out. Hallelujah.”
Al was in turn compensated nicely for his work behind the boards. “[Universal] cut me a check that was $350 grand,” he said. “I’m chillin now. Thanks, baby!”
Chemical Warfare, which features cameos from Eminem, Jadakiss, Pusha T, Blu, Lady Of Rage, Kool G Rap, Prodigy, Three 6 Mafia and Juvenile, among others, hits stores on July 7 via E1 music. – Adam Fleischer
xxlmag.com
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Grand Puba Links With Q-Tip & Large Pro For Comeback LP, Plans New Brand Nubian & Another Solo CD By ‘10
Grand Puba revealed to XXLMag.com that he will drop a follow-up to his comeback disc Retroactive- due later this month - as well as reunite with Brand Nubian for another album.
Retroactive, slated for release on June 23, is Puba’s first album in eight years and is set to feature guest spots from Busta Rhymes and dead prez, as well as production by Q-Tip, Large Professor.
“We’re doing stuff now—the crazy shit about it is I’m still working,” Puba told XXL. “A few dudes missed the release date so what I’m doing is I’m coming with a second joint right after that—like a part two.”
As for a release date for the planned sequel, Puba detailed, “Maybe at the top of the year probably—but in between that time, you might see a Brand Nubian joint.”
Stay tuned for a full-length feature with Puba to post on XXLMag.com coming soon. - Devin Chanda
posted by xxl staff
Retroactive, slated for release on June 23, is Puba’s first album in eight years and is set to feature guest spots from Busta Rhymes and dead prez, as well as production by Q-Tip, Large Professor.
“We’re doing stuff now—the crazy shit about it is I’m still working,” Puba told XXL. “A few dudes missed the release date so what I’m doing is I’m coming with a second joint right after that—like a part two.”
As for a release date for the planned sequel, Puba detailed, “Maybe at the top of the year probably—but in between that time, you might see a Brand Nubian joint.”
Stay tuned for a full-length feature with Puba to post on XXLMag.com coming soon. - Devin Chanda
posted by xxl staff
Redman & Method Man Talk Eminem Tour, "We're Coming In Through The Back Door"
Written by Cyrus Langhorne
Rap duo Method Man and Redman recently spoke on their aim to join Eminem for a summer tour and the importance of making money on the road.
Although Em has yet to announce an official tour, both Mef and Red said they will be the first in line to perform with him.
"We're on the tour, man," Mef joking said in an interview. "We're gonna jump on Em's tour -- we're putting it out there. We do tour a lot. I'd say altogether 10, 11 months a year. Redman wants to go to Vegas!"
"Even if he don't put us on, we're coming in through the back door, jumping onstage," Red added. "Honestly, I'm gonna tell you exactly what that is -- That's how emcees make their money. Those royalty checks come like babies -- every nine months. Plus we enjoy doing shows. Anybody who's come to a Method Man and Redman show knows that we give 110 percent every time we're out there." (MTV)
DMC of iconic rap group Run-DMC previously revealed his desire to tour with Em this summer.
"I'm trying to get to be the opening act whenever he tours," DMC said in an interview earlier this month. "Hopefully I'll get to tour with him...He inspires me. When I hear him, he makes me go back to my bedroom and sit down and write. I feel that we represent the upper echelon of what we're supposed to do with our craft." (Entertainment Weekly)
Redman previously spoke on the possibility of leaving Def Jam Records to join forces with Em's Shady Records.
"Even like Shady, even to have that idea, or Eminem to even have that idea like thinking Redman was gonna be off Def Jam and he coming through is a privilege," Red explained in an interview last month. "Like, I will leave right now and go over there to Shady. I don't care, 'cause they still doing hip-hop and I love it. Anybody supporting it, I'm there. Big up to Shady though, but I ain't off Def Jam yet, f*ck. But I'm there though. I'm still rockin'. Come get me for a record though, let's make it happen." (Dog & Pony Show)
Aside from touring, Red and Mef's new album landed in Billboard's Top 5 last month.
The "How High" duo Method Man & Redman's Blackout 2! marked another hip-hop comeback landing at No. 4. With a solid week under their belts, the rap veterans' return racked up 63,400 scanned discs. (SOHH Sales Wrap)
sohh.com
Rap duo Method Man and Redman recently spoke on their aim to join Eminem for a summer tour and the importance of making money on the road.
Although Em has yet to announce an official tour, both Mef and Red said they will be the first in line to perform with him.
"We're on the tour, man," Mef joking said in an interview. "We're gonna jump on Em's tour -- we're putting it out there. We do tour a lot. I'd say altogether 10, 11 months a year. Redman wants to go to Vegas!"
"Even if he don't put us on, we're coming in through the back door, jumping onstage," Red added. "Honestly, I'm gonna tell you exactly what that is -- That's how emcees make their money. Those royalty checks come like babies -- every nine months. Plus we enjoy doing shows. Anybody who's come to a Method Man and Redman show knows that we give 110 percent every time we're out there." (MTV)
DMC of iconic rap group Run-DMC previously revealed his desire to tour with Em this summer.
"I'm trying to get to be the opening act whenever he tours," DMC said in an interview earlier this month. "Hopefully I'll get to tour with him...He inspires me. When I hear him, he makes me go back to my bedroom and sit down and write. I feel that we represent the upper echelon of what we're supposed to do with our craft." (Entertainment Weekly)
Redman previously spoke on the possibility of leaving Def Jam Records to join forces with Em's Shady Records.
"Even like Shady, even to have that idea, or Eminem to even have that idea like thinking Redman was gonna be off Def Jam and he coming through is a privilege," Red explained in an interview last month. "Like, I will leave right now and go over there to Shady. I don't care, 'cause they still doing hip-hop and I love it. Anybody supporting it, I'm there. Big up to Shady though, but I ain't off Def Jam yet, f*ck. But I'm there though. I'm still rockin'. Come get me for a record though, let's make it happen." (Dog & Pony Show)
Aside from touring, Red and Mef's new album landed in Billboard's Top 5 last month.
The "How High" duo Method Man & Redman's Blackout 2! marked another hip-hop comeback landing at No. 4. With a solid week under their belts, the rap veterans' return racked up 63,400 scanned discs. (SOHH Sales Wrap)
sohh.com
True School NYC Summer Jams Return
True School New York City Summer Park Jam Series returns for its seventh year. This series began because of the efforts of two Hip Hop pioneers, Grandmaster Caz of the Cold Crush Brothers and Grand Wizard Theodore, the deejay credited with inventing scratching.
The Park Jam Series provides an atmosphere in nearby New York parks, similar to that of what existed more than 30 years ago during Hip Hop's infancy. Onlookers can expect to see the original four elements of Hip Hop at work.
Although the aim of the series is to revive an atmosphere in hip hop that would seemingly attract an older audience, it seeks to appeal to a younger generation who may be unconnected with hip hops roots. “I feel the people appreciate it more now, at least the older heads do,” said Grand Wizard Theodore. “The younger kids listen to the radio, the same old songs. They don’t know the songs we play in the park are the ones sampled on the radio.”
The True School NYC Summer Park Jam Series is free to attendees this summer at Crotona Park, St. Nicholas Park and Behagen Playground.
Reported by Ernest Crim.
Details below:
Thursdays. JUNE 4, 11 & 18, 2009: Boogie Down B-Boy/B-Girl Jams @ Behagen Park (aka 23 Park) Bronx feat. DJs Jazzy Jay, DP One, Lean Rock, Tony Touch, Ignishun, GrandWizzard Theodore, GrandMaster Caz, Forrest Getemgump, Tony Tone, Johnny Juice Rosado +. 5-9pm. FREE! All Ages! Behagen Park E. 166th St. betw. Tinton and Union Aves. Bronx NY 10456. 2 or 5 to Prospect. nycgovparks.org/parks/X166
Thursday, JUNE 25: Boogie Down B-Boy/B-Girl Jams @ St. Mary’s Park, Bronx
feat PopMaster Fabel, Kool DJ AJ Scratch & DJ Chuck City. 4-7pm @ St. Mary’s Park FREE! All Ages! 146th St. and St. Ann’s Bronx NYC 10454. 2 or 5 to 149th & 3rd or 6 to Brook. nycgovparks.org/parks/X045
Thursdays, JULY 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2009 Crotona Park Jams: Bronx - Held in assoc. with Council Member Joel Rivera and The Friends of Crotona Park. feat. DJs: Lord Finesse, GrandMaster Caz, Cash Money, Jazzy Joyce, Scratch, Afrika Bambaataa, Jazzy Jay, Kool DJ Red Alert, PopMaster Fabel, GrandWizzard Theodore +. 5-9pm. FREE! All Ages. Host: GrandMaster Caz. Enter at Charlotte St & Crotona Park East, Bronx NYC 10457. 2 or 5 to 174th St. itsmypark.org/brochures/crotona.swf
Tuesdays, AUG 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2009: Digger’s Delight: Harlem feat. DJs: Miss Shing-a-ling, Rockin’ Rob, Chuck City, Lean Rock, Chairman Mao, JBX, Jazzy Jay, Danny Dan the Beat Mann, Forrest Getemgump, Lord Finesse, and more tba. 4-8pm. FREE! All Ages. St. Nicholas Park Plaza @ 135th & St. Nicholas Ave, Harlem NYC 10027. B or C to W. 135th. Held in assoc. with The Friends of St. Nicholas Park: stnicholaspark.org.
hiphopdx.com
The Park Jam Series provides an atmosphere in nearby New York parks, similar to that of what existed more than 30 years ago during Hip Hop's infancy. Onlookers can expect to see the original four elements of Hip Hop at work.
Although the aim of the series is to revive an atmosphere in hip hop that would seemingly attract an older audience, it seeks to appeal to a younger generation who may be unconnected with hip hops roots. “I feel the people appreciate it more now, at least the older heads do,” said Grand Wizard Theodore. “The younger kids listen to the radio, the same old songs. They don’t know the songs we play in the park are the ones sampled on the radio.”
The True School NYC Summer Park Jam Series is free to attendees this summer at Crotona Park, St. Nicholas Park and Behagen Playground.
Reported by Ernest Crim.
Details below:
Thursdays. JUNE 4, 11 & 18, 2009: Boogie Down B-Boy/B-Girl Jams @ Behagen Park (aka 23 Park) Bronx feat. DJs Jazzy Jay, DP One, Lean Rock, Tony Touch, Ignishun, GrandWizzard Theodore, GrandMaster Caz, Forrest Getemgump, Tony Tone, Johnny Juice Rosado +. 5-9pm. FREE! All Ages! Behagen Park E. 166th St. betw. Tinton and Union Aves. Bronx NY 10456. 2 or 5 to Prospect. nycgovparks.org/parks/X166
Thursday, JUNE 25: Boogie Down B-Boy/B-Girl Jams @ St. Mary’s Park, Bronx
feat PopMaster Fabel, Kool DJ AJ Scratch & DJ Chuck City. 4-7pm @ St. Mary’s Park FREE! All Ages! 146th St. and St. Ann’s Bronx NYC 10454. 2 or 5 to 149th & 3rd or 6 to Brook. nycgovparks.org/parks/X045
Thursdays, JULY 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2009 Crotona Park Jams: Bronx - Held in assoc. with Council Member Joel Rivera and The Friends of Crotona Park. feat. DJs: Lord Finesse, GrandMaster Caz, Cash Money, Jazzy Joyce, Scratch, Afrika Bambaataa, Jazzy Jay, Kool DJ Red Alert, PopMaster Fabel, GrandWizzard Theodore +. 5-9pm. FREE! All Ages. Host: GrandMaster Caz. Enter at Charlotte St & Crotona Park East, Bronx NYC 10457. 2 or 5 to 174th St. itsmypark.org/brochures/crotona.swf
Tuesdays, AUG 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2009: Digger’s Delight: Harlem feat. DJs: Miss Shing-a-ling, Rockin’ Rob, Chuck City, Lean Rock, Chairman Mao, JBX, Jazzy Jay, Danny Dan the Beat Mann, Forrest Getemgump, Lord Finesse, and more tba. 4-8pm. FREE! All Ages. St. Nicholas Park Plaza @ 135th & St. Nicholas Ave, Harlem NYC 10027. B or C to W. 135th. Held in assoc. with The Friends of St. Nicholas Park: stnicholaspark.org.
hiphopdx.com
Smif-n-Wessun Talk About Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival
Author: Jake Paine
This year's Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival will be headlined by none other than Smif-n-Wessun. The Boot Camp Clik generals, through all their name-changes, Cocoa Brovaz, Tek & Steele and right back to the Smif-n-Wessun "originoo" moniker have always kept their love for BK as a consistent element in their music. Before heading to do shows in Europe, the duo spoke to HipHopDX about the June 20th affair.
"There's no place like home," said Steele. "Brooklyn is 'Bucktown,' and this is where we started. It gave us the energy to be able to go and rhyme. Little did we know that people was really gonna vibe to what we was sayin'; communication is just natural. If you can feel where we comin' from, as far as reppin' Brooklyn, then you know we love this place. This place raised us. Born here, we got our scars and scrapes here, and we elevated here, and we can still be able to perform here." The emcee, who last month released a solo album titled Bucktown added, "We're gonna be in Switzerland in a matter of hours, and we're taking Brooklyn with us too. We have to represent Brooklyn."
Recently, with Duck Down pioneer labelmates Black Moon performing Enta Da Stage, Smif-n-Wessun has begun performing their own debut, 1995's Dah Shinin'. Asked the response from Brooklyn crowds when the duo performs borough classic, "Home Sweet Home," Tek answered with a hearty laugh. "When we perform at home, in front of the home-team, it doesn't really matter what song we perform, they feel us. Each fan has their own favorite, but 'Home Sweet Home,' when it's performed, the energy is just awesome."
Steele praised the promoters of the event, Brooklyn Bodega , and compared the name to one of the significant landmarks of his Brownsville, Brooklyn birthplace. "Brooklyn Bodega, come to our corner-store; we got a lot of shit that you can shop for. [Laughs] It's only right." "When you come to my store, I'm gonna make sure you get what you need. Bread, milk, eggs, cheese? What you need? I got a homie that's gonna slice it up nice for you. What you need, a gyro? We got it all for you, baby! [Laughs]"
Before preparing for trans-Atlantic travel, the group updated on their next album, reported to be produced entirely by Pete Rock. "Truthfully, we haven't even started recording the album just yet," Tek said. "We're just sittin' down, in talks, just seeing the best direction to go about it. As far as chemistry, it's gonna be producer and artist, artist and producer, all creative minds working together. How that goes [will hopefully lead to] something beautiful and timeless, because all that's all we try to do."
hiphopdx.com
This year's Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival will be headlined by none other than Smif-n-Wessun. The Boot Camp Clik generals, through all their name-changes, Cocoa Brovaz, Tek & Steele and right back to the Smif-n-Wessun "originoo" moniker have always kept their love for BK as a consistent element in their music. Before heading to do shows in Europe, the duo spoke to HipHopDX about the June 20th affair.
"There's no place like home," said Steele. "Brooklyn is 'Bucktown,' and this is where we started. It gave us the energy to be able to go and rhyme. Little did we know that people was really gonna vibe to what we was sayin'; communication is just natural. If you can feel where we comin' from, as far as reppin' Brooklyn, then you know we love this place. This place raised us. Born here, we got our scars and scrapes here, and we elevated here, and we can still be able to perform here." The emcee, who last month released a solo album titled Bucktown added, "We're gonna be in Switzerland in a matter of hours, and we're taking Brooklyn with us too. We have to represent Brooklyn."
Recently, with Duck Down pioneer labelmates Black Moon performing Enta Da Stage, Smif-n-Wessun has begun performing their own debut, 1995's Dah Shinin'. Asked the response from Brooklyn crowds when the duo performs borough classic, "Home Sweet Home," Tek answered with a hearty laugh. "When we perform at home, in front of the home-team, it doesn't really matter what song we perform, they feel us. Each fan has their own favorite, but 'Home Sweet Home,' when it's performed, the energy is just awesome."
Steele praised the promoters of the event, Brooklyn Bodega , and compared the name to one of the significant landmarks of his Brownsville, Brooklyn birthplace. "Brooklyn Bodega, come to our corner-store; we got a lot of shit that you can shop for. [Laughs] It's only right." "When you come to my store, I'm gonna make sure you get what you need. Bread, milk, eggs, cheese? What you need? I got a homie that's gonna slice it up nice for you. What you need, a gyro? We got it all for you, baby! [Laughs]"
Before preparing for trans-Atlantic travel, the group updated on their next album, reported to be produced entirely by Pete Rock. "Truthfully, we haven't even started recording the album just yet," Tek said. "We're just sittin' down, in talks, just seeing the best direction to go about it. As far as chemistry, it's gonna be producer and artist, artist and producer, all creative minds working together. How that goes [will hopefully lead to] something beautiful and timeless, because all that's all we try to do."
hiphopdx.com
Pharoahe Monch, Others Join UNEP's Billion Tree Campaign
Author: Edwin Ortiz
With today being World Environment Day (June 5), Hip Hop acts such as Pharoahe Monch, Tajai of Hieroglyphics, and Mystic have teamed up with website mokugift.com in order to spread the message of environmental concerns through tree-planting.
As an official partner of the United Nations Environment Program’s Billion Tree Campaign, mokugift co-founder Krates Ng explained the reasoning behind getting artists on board for the environmental cause. “The Artists and Athletes Program is intended as a call to action, to accelerate participation in UNEP's Billion Tree Campaign. It's not so much about the artists themselves planting trees as it is about empowering ordinary people to inspire everyone to plant trees."
With plans to plant seven billion trees by the end of the year in parts of Asia, Central America, and Africa, mokugift.com has already received about 26,000 pledges in donations.
In a recent PSA announcement done by female emcee/singer Mystic, the Grammy-nominated artist encouraged people to do their part in making an environmental change. “As a global collective, we have the power to make every day an opportunity for change...When you plant trees with me, a sustainable farmer really plants trees somewhere in the world. So, not only for the future but for now, get involved. You are the key, and we have the power.
hiphopdx.com
With today being World Environment Day (June 5), Hip Hop acts such as Pharoahe Monch, Tajai of Hieroglyphics, and Mystic have teamed up with website mokugift.com in order to spread the message of environmental concerns through tree-planting.
As an official partner of the United Nations Environment Program’s Billion Tree Campaign, mokugift co-founder Krates Ng explained the reasoning behind getting artists on board for the environmental cause. “The Artists and Athletes Program is intended as a call to action, to accelerate participation in UNEP's Billion Tree Campaign. It's not so much about the artists themselves planting trees as it is about empowering ordinary people to inspire everyone to plant trees."
With plans to plant seven billion trees by the end of the year in parts of Asia, Central America, and Africa, mokugift.com has already received about 26,000 pledges in donations.
In a recent PSA announcement done by female emcee/singer Mystic, the Grammy-nominated artist encouraged people to do their part in making an environmental change. “As a global collective, we have the power to make every day an opportunity for change...When you plant trees with me, a sustainable farmer really plants trees somewhere in the world. So, not only for the future but for now, get involved. You are the key, and we have the power.
hiphopdx.com
Freeway To Join Cash Money Records
Author: Danielle Harling
In an interview with RapRadar.com, Philadelphia rapper Freeway confirmed that he will be joining Cash Money Records, the label that is home to rappers Baby, Lil Wayne, and more.
“Man, I don’t know how that got out there like that! Like, what’s going down is I’m 'bout to put out this album, called The Stimulus Package,” Freeway told Rap Radar. “It’s with Jake One. Jake One producing the whole album. I was in Miami fucking with Baby and them, and me and Baby got a song on the album that’s called ‘Follow My Moves.’ I been fucking with Cash Money. You know, me and Wayne did a joint for the last album, but we couldn’t get the shit cleared in time and all that. We just throwing around some ideas. And I’m launching a label, Free Money, so what better home for it.”
Freeway's addition to Cash Money will in turn result in the rappers departure from Jay Z’s Roc-A-Fella Records where Freeway was signed for several years.
When asked how he was approached regarding the Cash Money deal Freeway explained that the initial conversation stemmed from a chance encounter at the mall.
“I seen Baby in a mall,” said Freeway. “I seen him in Louis Vuitton and we was busting it up. And my man Ceelo, he worked with Baby, so he really basically connected us like that. But, right now everything is still in preliminary.”
In the interview Freeway also spoke on his feelings towards Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella, Jay-Z, and what the future holds for the Philadelphia rapper.
Most recently Freeway released Philadelphia Freeway 2, his third studio album, on May 19.
hiphopdx.com
Mos Def Speaks On The Escstatic; New Wesley Snipes Flick
By Ismael AbduSalaam
Three years since highlighting his musical self, Mos Def is more than ready to reestablish himself in the eyes of the rap community with the release of his forthcoming opus The Ecstatic.
For the rapper/actor, the challenge lies in giving fans an album worth adding to their collection, as he admits that the “quality, clarity and ambition” behind his latest project is prevalent.
"The aim is high," Mos Def told USA Today while sharing that his writing and rhyming skills have sharpened since arriving on the scene with the single “Universal Magnetic,” 12 years ago.
"I don't want to waste anyone's time or money,” Mos explained. “I want to give people some truth and positive heart lift. The quality, clarity and ambition are there. There are no discotheque anthems. Um, no disrespect to discotheque."
The Ecstatic's pending release follows Mos Def’s 2006 album True Magic.
The rapper’s third offering, which included production from The Neptunes, Rich Harrison and Minnesota, was released without promotion in a clear case without cover art.
Between albums, the rapper kept himself busy over the years via acting roles in a string of films such as The Italian Job, Monster's Ball, 16 Blocks, Be Kind Rewind, HBO's Something the Lord Made, Cadillac Records and his latest big screen outing, Next Day Air.
Despite the Mike Epps and Donald Faison-assisted feature’s failure to generate a big payday at the box office, Mos Def is looking ahead as he ponders various movie offers and maintains high hopes for Toussaint, a Danny Glover-helmed biopic about Haitian revolutionary Toussaint L'Ouverture.
In addition to the rapper, the cast will include Wesley Snipes and Don Cheadle.
"It's hard to take Hollywood too seriously," Mos Def said regarding the importance of a successful film project. "If you can turn a dollar and sleep at night, then cool. Whether a movie sinks or swims, you want to have a decent experience, so you go for something that at least is trying to be good."
Preceded by a trio of singles (“Life In Marvelous Times,” “Quiet Dog (Bite Hard)” and “Casa Bey,” The Ecstatic will feature appearances from Slick Rick, Scarface, Talib Kweli and K'Naan in addition to producers Madlib and Chad Hugo.
Musically, Mos Def sheds light on the title of his new album as he admits that The Ecstatic borrows its name from a 2002 comic novel from Victor LaValle.
Mos Def’s The Ecstatic is in stores today (June 9).
allhiphop.com
Three years since highlighting his musical self, Mos Def is more than ready to reestablish himself in the eyes of the rap community with the release of his forthcoming opus The Ecstatic.
For the rapper/actor, the challenge lies in giving fans an album worth adding to their collection, as he admits that the “quality, clarity and ambition” behind his latest project is prevalent.
"The aim is high," Mos Def told USA Today while sharing that his writing and rhyming skills have sharpened since arriving on the scene with the single “Universal Magnetic,” 12 years ago.
"I don't want to waste anyone's time or money,” Mos explained. “I want to give people some truth and positive heart lift. The quality, clarity and ambition are there. There are no discotheque anthems. Um, no disrespect to discotheque."
The Ecstatic's pending release follows Mos Def’s 2006 album True Magic.
The rapper’s third offering, which included production from The Neptunes, Rich Harrison and Minnesota, was released without promotion in a clear case without cover art.
Between albums, the rapper kept himself busy over the years via acting roles in a string of films such as The Italian Job, Monster's Ball, 16 Blocks, Be Kind Rewind, HBO's Something the Lord Made, Cadillac Records and his latest big screen outing, Next Day Air.
Despite the Mike Epps and Donald Faison-assisted feature’s failure to generate a big payday at the box office, Mos Def is looking ahead as he ponders various movie offers and maintains high hopes for Toussaint, a Danny Glover-helmed biopic about Haitian revolutionary Toussaint L'Ouverture.
In addition to the rapper, the cast will include Wesley Snipes and Don Cheadle.
"It's hard to take Hollywood too seriously," Mos Def said regarding the importance of a successful film project. "If you can turn a dollar and sleep at night, then cool. Whether a movie sinks or swims, you want to have a decent experience, so you go for something that at least is trying to be good."
Preceded by a trio of singles (“Life In Marvelous Times,” “Quiet Dog (Bite Hard)” and “Casa Bey,” The Ecstatic will feature appearances from Slick Rick, Scarface, Talib Kweli and K'Naan in addition to producers Madlib and Chad Hugo.
Musically, Mos Def sheds light on the title of his new album as he admits that The Ecstatic borrows its name from a 2002 comic novel from Victor LaValle.
Mos Def’s The Ecstatic is in stores today (June 9).
allhiphop.com
Jay-Z Planning Sept. 11 'Blueprint 3' Show, Talks 'D.O.A.'
By Tai Saint Louis
Continuing a media blitz that started on Saturday night (June 6) with the release of his new single “D.O.A. (Death of Autotune),” Jay-Z appeared on New York’s Hot 97 for a candid conversation with longtime host Angie Martinez.
During the chat, Jay confirmed that his eleventh solo album, The Blueprint 3 will be released on September 11 as rumored.
“It’s the date the first one came out and it was a horrible date in our history,” he stated. “I have a wonderful idea for a show, proceeds are gonna go to charity. You know, just bring it full circle. I have a historic venue in mind, I’m gonna bring some artists out. It’s gonna be big.”
The multi-platinum rapper, who ranked #32 on the latest Forbes list of top earning celebrities, also took time to address the controversy created by “D.O.A,” which was co-produced by autotune user Kanye West.
Jay clarified that his gripe about the recording tool is simply with those artists who “use it as a crutch,” adding that autotune can be a great tool, when you have melodies behind it.
During the show, a fan texted Martinez, asking if the song was a jab at Ron Browz and DJ Webstar for their collaborations with Jim Jones.
Jay-Z dismissed the rumors and replied “so far away from my thought process. Really far away.”
“It’s not me, the people are sick of it,” Jay-Z continued, before closing out the interview to the sound of his live performance at Hot 97’s Summer Jam 2009 on Sunday night (June 7).
As for T-Pain’s appearance on stage during the impromptu performance, Jay said that it was not planned as many believed.
Jay-Z took advantage of the interview to share his thoughts on the current state of Hip-Hop, speaking on his likes and dislikes and co-signing both newcomer Drake and Soulja Boy, who often comes under fire from Hip-Hop purists.
One of the most poignant statements he made during this most recent interview, however, spoke to the quality of music itself.
“We can’t complain about the state of rap and where it’s going and the decline every year,” he concluded. “We have to look at ourselves first. I can understand why a lot of people get turned off of rap. You can talk about the machine, but you gotta be willing to clean yourself up first.”
allhiphop.com
Continuing a media blitz that started on Saturday night (June 6) with the release of his new single “D.O.A. (Death of Autotune),” Jay-Z appeared on New York’s Hot 97 for a candid conversation with longtime host Angie Martinez.
During the chat, Jay confirmed that his eleventh solo album, The Blueprint 3 will be released on September 11 as rumored.
“It’s the date the first one came out and it was a horrible date in our history,” he stated. “I have a wonderful idea for a show, proceeds are gonna go to charity. You know, just bring it full circle. I have a historic venue in mind, I’m gonna bring some artists out. It’s gonna be big.”
The multi-platinum rapper, who ranked #32 on the latest Forbes list of top earning celebrities, also took time to address the controversy created by “D.O.A,” which was co-produced by autotune user Kanye West.
Jay clarified that his gripe about the recording tool is simply with those artists who “use it as a crutch,” adding that autotune can be a great tool, when you have melodies behind it.
During the show, a fan texted Martinez, asking if the song was a jab at Ron Browz and DJ Webstar for their collaborations with Jim Jones.
Jay-Z dismissed the rumors and replied “so far away from my thought process. Really far away.”
“It’s not me, the people are sick of it,” Jay-Z continued, before closing out the interview to the sound of his live performance at Hot 97’s Summer Jam 2009 on Sunday night (June 7).
As for T-Pain’s appearance on stage during the impromptu performance, Jay said that it was not planned as many believed.
Jay-Z took advantage of the interview to share his thoughts on the current state of Hip-Hop, speaking on his likes and dislikes and co-signing both newcomer Drake and Soulja Boy, who often comes under fire from Hip-Hop purists.
One of the most poignant statements he made during this most recent interview, however, spoke to the quality of music itself.
“We can’t complain about the state of rap and where it’s going and the decline every year,” he concluded. “We have to look at ourselves first. I can understand why a lot of people get turned off of rap. You can talk about the machine, but you gotta be willing to clean yourself up first.”
allhiphop.com
Rappers, Celebrities Appear At Hot 97 "Summer Jam"
By Kadeem Lundy
Hot 97 held it's annual Summer Jam event at Giants Stadium in New Jersey last night (June 8), drawing tens of thousands of concert goers.
Mary J. Blige, Jadakiss, The Dream, Elephant Man, Juelz Santana and Jim Jones were all featured guests at the event, and gave crowd pleasing performances.
A number of artists also made appearances during the evening, including Lil Kim, Maino, Drake, Method Man, and Jay Z who unveiled his new single "The Death of Autotune."
Young Jeezy brought out Drake and the pair performed Drake’s hit single "Best I Ever Had.".
Then Jay Z made his introduction, rapping his verse on Young Jeezy's "Put On” remix, before launching into his new "Death of Autotune” track.
Shortly after finishing the song T-Pain came out and stood next to Jay. T-pain had no problem with Jay's song, which talks about too many rappers using Pain's Autotune device instead of straight rapping.
Method Man, and Redman performed with Mary J. Blige, Busta Rhymes and Jeremih appeared with Jadakiss, and DJ Khaled performed with Ace Hood.
Soulja Boy also made an appearance with Juelz Santana and Jim Jones.
This year Summer Jam was hosted by comedian Tracy Morgan, and featured a superhero inspired theme.
Concert goers were given programs in plastic protective sleeves, and the programs featured comic book inspired illustrations.
This marks the final year that the event will take place at the current Giants Stadium which is scheduled to be torn down later this year.
allhiphop.com
Hot 97 held it's annual Summer Jam event at Giants Stadium in New Jersey last night (June 8), drawing tens of thousands of concert goers.
Mary J. Blige, Jadakiss, The Dream, Elephant Man, Juelz Santana and Jim Jones were all featured guests at the event, and gave crowd pleasing performances.
A number of artists also made appearances during the evening, including Lil Kim, Maino, Drake, Method Man, and Jay Z who unveiled his new single "The Death of Autotune."
Young Jeezy brought out Drake and the pair performed Drake’s hit single "Best I Ever Had.".
Then Jay Z made his introduction, rapping his verse on Young Jeezy's "Put On” remix, before launching into his new "Death of Autotune” track.
Shortly after finishing the song T-Pain came out and stood next to Jay. T-pain had no problem with Jay's song, which talks about too many rappers using Pain's Autotune device instead of straight rapping.
Method Man, and Redman performed with Mary J. Blige, Busta Rhymes and Jeremih appeared with Jadakiss, and DJ Khaled performed with Ace Hood.
Soulja Boy also made an appearance with Juelz Santana and Jim Jones.
This year Summer Jam was hosted by comedian Tracy Morgan, and featured a superhero inspired theme.
Concert goers were given programs in plastic protective sleeves, and the programs featured comic book inspired illustrations.
This marks the final year that the event will take place at the current Giants Stadium which is scheduled to be torn down later this year.
allhiphop.com
Drake Plans New Lawsuit Over Unauthorized New Album
By Chris Richburg
A recently released unauthorized album featuring Canadian rapper Drake will be the focus of a new lawsuit the entertainer plans to file.
Drake is planning a lawsuit against Canadian Money Entertainment over the release, titled The Girls Love Drake.
The unauthorized album, which was released May 28 by Canadian Money, includes songs from Drake's mixtape, So Far Gone, as well as other tracks.
It was distributed by the Independent Online Distribution Alliance (IODA) on iTunes, Rhapsody and Amazon.
According to Drake’s manager, Al Branch, Drake or his affiliated label Young Money is associated with the album.
Currently, the rapper is at the center of a major bidding war between three major record labels.
At the heart of the suit are uncleared samples for So Far Gone and two other mixtapes.
Drake’s camp has gone on record saying it did not authorize The Girls Love Drake.
A chief concern for Branch involves Young Money or October's Own, Drake's label, potentially being sued because the mixtape samples have not been legally cleared for use.
Artists sampled for the mixtapes include rapper David Banner as well as singers Goapele and Colin Munroe.
allhiphop.com
A recently released unauthorized album featuring Canadian rapper Drake will be the focus of a new lawsuit the entertainer plans to file.
Drake is planning a lawsuit against Canadian Money Entertainment over the release, titled The Girls Love Drake.
The unauthorized album, which was released May 28 by Canadian Money, includes songs from Drake's mixtape, So Far Gone, as well as other tracks.
It was distributed by the Independent Online Distribution Alliance (IODA) on iTunes, Rhapsody and Amazon.
According to Drake’s manager, Al Branch, Drake or his affiliated label Young Money is associated with the album.
Currently, the rapper is at the center of a major bidding war between three major record labels.
At the heart of the suit are uncleared samples for So Far Gone and two other mixtapes.
Drake’s camp has gone on record saying it did not authorize The Girls Love Drake.
A chief concern for Branch involves Young Money or October's Own, Drake's label, potentially being sued because the mixtape samples have not been legally cleared for use.
Artists sampled for the mixtapes include rapper David Banner as well as singers Goapele and Colin Munroe.
allhiphop.com
VH1 Hip-Hop Honors To Celebrate Def Jam
By Tai Saint Louis
While this year’s VH1 Hip Hop Honors ceremony will mark six years since VH1 started the annual tradition of celebrating the best in Hip-Hop culture, it will mark two firsts as well.
VH1 has announced that this year’s award ceremony, to be held on Tuesday, October 12, will pay homage to Def Jam Records in recognition of the legendary label’s 25th anniversary.
This year will also mark the star-studded event’s departure from the Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan, relocating to the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York.
30 Rock star and Saturday Night Live alum Tracy Morgan will reprise his role as host for the third consecutive year.
Former Yo! MTV Raps host Fab 5 Freddie and author/filmmaker Nelson George will also continue to serve as the program’s executive producers.
In previous years, the VH1 Hip Hop Honors have celebrated the accomplishments and contributions of pioneering artists including KRS-One, Public Enemy, Sugarhill Gang, Big Daddy Kane, Ice-T, Ice Cube, Rakim, Cypress Hill and MC-Lyte.
Through interviews with the honorees and their peers and tribute performances by newer artists, the program has simultaneously allowed the original Hip-Hop generation to reminisce while introducing the next generation to those who paved the way.
Each year, the VH1 Hip Hop Honors has also recognized iconic films, movies and individuals who helped to mold the culture, from the graffiti movement, honored in 2004, to R&B great Isaac Hayes, who was celebrated last year just two months after his untimely death.
However, 2009 will mark the first time a record label is commemorated.
“It is impossible to pay tribute to the best in Hip-Hop without recognizing Def Jam Records,” says VH1’s EVP of Music Production Lee Rolontz. “Throughout the years VH1 has honored numerous artists from the Def Jam label, but due to the magnificent impact that Def Jam as a company has made on not only Hip-Hop culture but pop culture as a whole, we thought they definitely deserved the opportunity to be honored.”
With Def Jam serving as this year’s top honoree, the 2009 VH1 Hip Hop Honors promises not only a gathering of the bonafide superstars who have come to represent the label, either in the studio, like Public Enemy, Kanye West, Rick Ross and Rihanna; or in the office as Rick Rubin, Russell Simmons, LA Reid and Jay-Z have done.
In addition to Def Jam’s musical legacy, VH1 Hip Hop Honors will also celebrate the Hip-Hop brand’s impact on comedy, spoken word, fashion and pop culture in general.
Additional details about the 2009 VH1 Hip Hop Honors, including performers, presenters, specific honorees and related programming will be made available later this summer at VH1.com.
allhiphop.com
Budden to Meth & Busta: ‘We Rappers, Let’s Rap!’
By Ismael AbduSalaam
Jersey lyricist Joe Budden is striking back at his critics over the fallout of his recent lyrical critique of former Def Jam colleague Method Man.
Last month, Budden drew the ire of veterans Busta Rhymes, Redman, Melle Mel, and Method Man after ridiculing the placement of the latter two above him on Vibe’s Greatest Emcees of All Time list.
After weeks of silence, Budden sat down with Miss Info to address the attacks against him.
“Everybody took offense…you name it, they took offense to it,” Budden began. “Number one I’m entitled to my opinion. If a n*gga get offended at me having an opinion, suck a d*ck. Number two, what world are we in? [Are] we not rappers? We all rappers, some bigger than others. But we rap. Let’s rap. I want to rap, I want to always rap.”
While many cited Budden’s previous Method Man comments as “disrespectful,” the Jersey City native argued his declarations are in line with the main tenets of being a legit emcee in Hip-Hop culture.
"I’m dead-ass when I talk. I have faith in my pen game,” Budden exclaimed. “And that’s how it should be. If you’re a rapper, I can’t see how you wouldn’t have the same attitude. If a n*gga said, ‘yo’ Joe Budden, you versus Eminem, whose gonna win?’ I’m going to say Joe Budden. I’m supposed to say it. Even if it’s the furthest thing from reality, you’re supposed to have utmost confidence in yourself and your craft. And if you don’t something is wrong with you.”
In a recent interview on New York’s Power 105.1FM, Method Man accused Budden of using him to gain publicity after being “benched” (dropped) by Def Jam several years ago.
Budden retorted to the claim by questioning what he could gain from dissing a Wu-Tang founding member in 2009.
“I have a problem with that. Get my foot in what door?” an incredulous Budden inquired. “They keep talking about a door that I’m running away from, and all my actions say I’m running away from. I’ve had offers from major labels; I don’t want it…If anything, you’re on the bench, too. You in the door you want to be in, on the bench. This Blackout 2 sh*t, he says I’m attacking him because he has an album coming out. ..If anything it would be reversed; I’d should be attacking him when I have an album coming out…I’m attacking you?! There’s nobody else that’s popping on a higher plateau and more relevant than you if I want to get my name out there? Huh? I could go diss Kanye West like all these other rap n***as be trying to do. I can go diss Jim Jones, Rick Ross; n***as who are very active and relevant today. They throwing these n***as off a diving board, something I wouldn’t let them do to me.”
Former collaborator Busta Rhymes weighed in on the situation in his own Power 105.1 interview, stating the controversial Mood Muzik creator should be slapped from his comments.
After labeling that statement hypocritical, Budden again brought the argument back to his original point of who can prove they are the better emcee.
“I’m talking about music…he should be smacked for that, by who exactly?” Budden questioned.
“I rap better than n***as! [It’s] my opinion. Because I heard him say that too, about ‘how can he say no disrespect to Method Man and say that dumb sh*t?’ Say what dumb sh*t? It’s my opinion and I’ll back it up. But not [just] to him, to whoever.”
Joe Budden’s latest LP, Padded Room, was released in February.
Albums from Busta Rhymes [Back on My B.S.], Method Man and Redman [Blackout 2] both hit stores on May 19, with the latter scoring a top 10 debut on Billboard’s 200 chart.
At press time, Method Man nor Busta Rhymes could be reached for comment.
allhiphop.com
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Ruthless Records Returns With L.A. Multi-Talent Hopsin
Author: Jake Paine
Hip Hop fans remember Ruthless Records for being an introduction point to N.W.A. [click to read], The D.O.C. and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony [click to read]. Owned by Eazy E, the famed imprint also played home to artists including will.i.am, DJ Quik [click to read] and Above The Law throughout its 23 years in business. However, with few new releases after Eazy's 1995 death, and even less after the Bone Thugs camp vacated the label in the early '00s, the legendary Rap label has overhauled its roster.
In addition to Stevie Stone, one of the label's new hopefuls is 23 year-old Hopsin. A native of Panorama City in the valley, the emcee, who shares a love of film and skateboarding has brought his many talents to the label that's negotiated a new distribution deal through Sony Red.
"Before I got the deal, I was doing little Hip Hop showcases every now and then, and basically just promoting myself on MySpace. I didn't really have a lot of knowledge as far as marketing myself, 'cause it was just me," Hopsin admitted to HipHopDX, speaking from the Ruthless offices in Los Angeles. "I was making all the beats that I rap to and directing all my videos, but I just didn't know how to get out there; I didn't have a manager too." In an age where artists like Drake and Mickey Factz have created movements without labels, the west coast rapper says label support made him national, "The buzz wasn't really, really that big. It was nothing, except around my neighborhood."
Although he appreciates the tradtional label structure, Hopsin is hardly a traditional artist. A triple-threat, he raps, produces and directs his own videos. "Nobody can write my rhymes for me, 'cause they don't know my life. Nobody can direct my videos for me, 'cause they don't see my vision," he said, about his creative demands on his art. In an age pioneered by Dr. Dre 15 years ago, where rappers direct their own videos, Hopsin says his hardest task in the process is creating a team. "Find a good camera-man! It gets real tough," shared Hopsin, noting numerous occassions where he employed crews that did not measure up.
Being focused on music, the rapper echoes the sentiments heard in the Midwest from Kid Cudi and B.o.B. in the south, as far as isolation and sacrifice. "I had to throw a part of life away. I was in high school, but I didn't have fun. I didn't do the girlfriend thing; I was focused on music. It's now paying off," he said, claiming his peers today are likely "trapped in the matrix."
As far as the matrix of the music industry, Hopsin says that Ruthless has innovative plans to unveil their third-generation acts. "I was told that they're pushing everybody out at the same time. They've got an individual focus on every artist. [Label CEO and Eazy E widow Tomica Wright] doesn't want to specifically brand the label, she wants to focus on the mind of each artist individually. Eventually, you'll know what label we're all on, but it's all about the individual aspects of the artist."
Asked if he upolds any of the Ruthless traditions in music-making, Hopsin told DX, "I'm all about the rawness - being raw and saying what I want. I'm not gonna say, 'F the president,' but if I have a topic to speak on, as far as other rappers, or how I feel about a girlfriend or a homie, i express how I feel. That's what I feel I bring back to the new roster at Ruthless Records." Joking that Panorama City is hardly Compton, the 23 year-old also made commentary on Rap's evolution since the '80s. "If I rap about guns, not everybody has [used] a gun in their life. But if I rap about fighting, everybody has been in some sort of confrontation in their life. I do it in a way that's acceptable."
The fist-fights, break-ups and commentary is reportedly coming together in a 2010 body of work titled Gazing At The Moonlight. With two singles already surfacing ("Pans In The Kitchen" and "I Am Here"), Hopsin explained his title song as, "A deep, conscious song talking about how a lot of people sell themselves out and in a way, sell their souls to the Devil 'cause they don't have the true skill to do it. I'm explainin' to everybody that I'm not gonna fall to that influence." The album will be entirely self-produced, with self-directed videos, including an early work, posted below.
hiphopdx.com
Hip Hop fans remember Ruthless Records for being an introduction point to N.W.A. [click to read], The D.O.C. and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony [click to read]. Owned by Eazy E, the famed imprint also played home to artists including will.i.am, DJ Quik [click to read] and Above The Law throughout its 23 years in business. However, with few new releases after Eazy's 1995 death, and even less after the Bone Thugs camp vacated the label in the early '00s, the legendary Rap label has overhauled its roster.
In addition to Stevie Stone, one of the label's new hopefuls is 23 year-old Hopsin. A native of Panorama City in the valley, the emcee, who shares a love of film and skateboarding has brought his many talents to the label that's negotiated a new distribution deal through Sony Red.
"Before I got the deal, I was doing little Hip Hop showcases every now and then, and basically just promoting myself on MySpace. I didn't really have a lot of knowledge as far as marketing myself, 'cause it was just me," Hopsin admitted to HipHopDX, speaking from the Ruthless offices in Los Angeles. "I was making all the beats that I rap to and directing all my videos, but I just didn't know how to get out there; I didn't have a manager too." In an age where artists like Drake and Mickey Factz have created movements without labels, the west coast rapper says label support made him national, "The buzz wasn't really, really that big. It was nothing, except around my neighborhood."
Although he appreciates the tradtional label structure, Hopsin is hardly a traditional artist. A triple-threat, he raps, produces and directs his own videos. "Nobody can write my rhymes for me, 'cause they don't know my life. Nobody can direct my videos for me, 'cause they don't see my vision," he said, about his creative demands on his art. In an age pioneered by Dr. Dre 15 years ago, where rappers direct their own videos, Hopsin says his hardest task in the process is creating a team. "Find a good camera-man! It gets real tough," shared Hopsin, noting numerous occassions where he employed crews that did not measure up.
Being focused on music, the rapper echoes the sentiments heard in the Midwest from Kid Cudi and B.o.B. in the south, as far as isolation and sacrifice. "I had to throw a part of life away. I was in high school, but I didn't have fun. I didn't do the girlfriend thing; I was focused on music. It's now paying off," he said, claiming his peers today are likely "trapped in the matrix."
As far as the matrix of the music industry, Hopsin says that Ruthless has innovative plans to unveil their third-generation acts. "I was told that they're pushing everybody out at the same time. They've got an individual focus on every artist. [Label CEO and Eazy E widow Tomica Wright] doesn't want to specifically brand the label, she wants to focus on the mind of each artist individually. Eventually, you'll know what label we're all on, but it's all about the individual aspects of the artist."
Asked if he upolds any of the Ruthless traditions in music-making, Hopsin told DX, "I'm all about the rawness - being raw and saying what I want. I'm not gonna say, 'F the president,' but if I have a topic to speak on, as far as other rappers, or how I feel about a girlfriend or a homie, i express how I feel. That's what I feel I bring back to the new roster at Ruthless Records." Joking that Panorama City is hardly Compton, the 23 year-old also made commentary on Rap's evolution since the '80s. "If I rap about guns, not everybody has [used] a gun in their life. But if I rap about fighting, everybody has been in some sort of confrontation in their life. I do it in a way that's acceptable."
The fist-fights, break-ups and commentary is reportedly coming together in a 2010 body of work titled Gazing At The Moonlight. With two singles already surfacing ("Pans In The Kitchen" and "I Am Here"), Hopsin explained his title song as, "A deep, conscious song talking about how a lot of people sell themselves out and in a way, sell their souls to the Devil 'cause they don't have the true skill to do it. I'm explainin' to everybody that I'm not gonna fall to that influence." The album will be entirely self-produced, with self-directed videos, including an early work, posted below.
hiphopdx.com
"Pans in the Kitchen" - Hopsin from Hopsin on Vimeo.
Posdnuos Talks New De La Album, Working With Gorillaz
Author: Slava Kuperstein
De La Soul's Posdnuos recently took time to speak about the group's upcoming album, You're Welcome.
"We have several tracks that are coming together incredibly," said Pos, according to Entertainment Weekly. Included amongst the songs are "We Are (For the People)," featuring vocals from Chuck D and Flavor Flav (get out those running shoes!), as well as a song titled "We Are God."
Pos also revealed that the group also hopes to get a feature from Damon Albarn, Blur's lead singer and mastermind behind the Gorillaz.
De La Soul met Albarn after appearing on the Gorillaz' 2005 hit "Feel Good Inc.," featured on their multi-platinum album Demon Days.
In addition, Posdnuos discoled that De La Soul has contributed vocals to two songs so far for the next Gorillaz album, which is tentatively titled Plastic Beach. The working titles for the songs are "Sloped Tropics" and "Electric Shock." The latter has the same name as one of the Gorillaz demos Albarn debuted on BBC Radio 1 in January of this year.
In related news, De La Soul released a 10-track mix of running music comissioned by Nike titled Are You In?
hiphopdx.com
De La Soul's Posdnuos recently took time to speak about the group's upcoming album, You're Welcome.
"We have several tracks that are coming together incredibly," said Pos, according to Entertainment Weekly. Included amongst the songs are "We Are (For the People)," featuring vocals from Chuck D and Flavor Flav (get out those running shoes!), as well as a song titled "We Are God."
Pos also revealed that the group also hopes to get a feature from Damon Albarn, Blur's lead singer and mastermind behind the Gorillaz.
De La Soul met Albarn after appearing on the Gorillaz' 2005 hit "Feel Good Inc.," featured on their multi-platinum album Demon Days.
In addition, Posdnuos discoled that De La Soul has contributed vocals to two songs so far for the next Gorillaz album, which is tentatively titled Plastic Beach. The working titles for the songs are "Sloped Tropics" and "Electric Shock." The latter has the same name as one of the Gorillaz demos Albarn debuted on BBC Radio 1 in January of this year.
In related news, De La Soul released a 10-track mix of running music comissioned by Nike titled Are You In?
hiphopdx.com
U-God Talks "Dopium," Sharpening Skills
Author: Sean Ryon
Names have always played an important role in the Wu-Tang Clan. From their epithets like “the Man of All Rainbows,” to their Cuban Linx pseudonyms, the nine members of the classic Hip Hop ensemble have always paid careful attention to their numerous monikers. This summer, U-God introduces a new name into the Wu-Tang vernacular. His latest album is called Dopium, dropping June 23 on Babygrande/Frank Radio.
“[The title Dopium came about] one day. I’m sitting in the house and there are all these drug commercials: Xanax, Lithium, and all this other crazy shit. I’m just like, ‘Damn, all these companies are coming up with these names for these drugs," said the Staten Island emcee. "The Like, shit, where do they get all these names from?’ And they’re legalized drug companies. So I’m sitting there, saying to myself, ‘Damn, [Dr.] Dre had The Chronic, and shit, [these companies] make billions and billions of dollars off of these names and these legalized drugs,’ and I also had the thought…that everybody says ‘I’ve got the crack rap.’ I’m sitting there thinking, ‘You know what? I’ve got to come up with a drug name that represents my music and how I feel my music is.’ U-God deduced, "'I’ve got that dope shit. I’ve got dopium.’ I cut off the words ‘dope’ and ‘opium’ and put them together, and said ‘I’ve got that dopium.’”
Since the Wu-Tang Clan’s emergence in 1993, U-God is infamous among his fans and his fellow emcees for his hard-hitting guest verses, garnering the epithet “the 4-Bar Killer.” He promises that Dopium will even surpass his past lyrical brilliance.
“[In] my years of rhyming, I’ve been able to sit back and study my brothers [in the Wu-Tang Clan],” said U-God. “I can’t deny nothing: I learned all my craft from the nine greatest emcees to ever embrace this earth. Being that, I [sat] back and gathered what I call in my mind ‘the manual’ for Rap. Being that I sat back and was taught by the best, I’ve been able to sit back and see things in music and rhyming that other people probably can’t see right now. He continued, "In other words, you’ve got spiritual Rap, you’ve got compressed Rap, you’ve got bouncy flows, you’ve got stutter step, you’ve got all types of different rhyming. What [I’m] able to do [is]…I can bring [those styles] about anytime now because I went through the so-called ’36 chambers,’ and I completed my dragon stance. This is what I’ve been able to do so far. I completed my chambers and my chamber task, and I became a master. So now, I can master any style that’s brought about. Any which way somebody wants to take it, I can do that with ease right now.”
Although releasing two albums in 1999 and 2005 respectively, U-God admits he's had a slower rise than some of his brethren. “It took me awhile to get like this. I believe in the story of the tortoise and the hare. You’ve got dudes that are real fast, and can go in things and do them. I’m not that dude; I’m the turtle. I take my time, but I get across the finish line when it’s time to get across the finish line.”
While many of Wu-Tang Clan members’ albums boast features from their associates, Dopium features an even more diverse list of guest artists. Included on the album are collaborations with Jim Jones , Sheek Louch and legendary producing emcee Large Professor.
Looking at the guest list, U-God said, “[Jim Jones], that’s my man, that’s my peeps. I was always up in Harlem [when I was] growing up, so I always felt [there were] certain dudes I could reach out to. And then one day, we were in the studio recording shit, and I happened to know that he was going to be there in the same studio. So what I did was, I just went to the studio session. He had a hundred dudes up in there, them niggas were smoking weed, he was doing whatever. I just went straight to the dude and said ‘Yo dag, I want you on my joint,' and he said ‘Aight.’ Two weeks later, he was up at my favorite spot, and I went up there and met him. I sat there with my man and I got a verse from the dude. Dude is a real dude; ain’t too many real dudes left in the game. I recognize real dudes. I can see a lot of dudes are faking, acting like they’re the shit, acting like they’re like this, that and whatever. But Jim [Jones] is a real dude. I approached him, and he gave me his verse in 15 minutes. Bang, it was nothing. Same thing with Sheek Louch. Bang, 15 minutes in. [There are] certain dudes I can see ‘He’s hood oriented, so he ain’t going to take me through that movie-star status shit, or not call me back he because he doesn’t feel level I’m on his level'...[Sheek] gave me a nice dart, too.”
go to http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.9229/title.u-god-talks-dopium-sharpening-skills/p.2 to read the rest
hiphopdx.com
Dilated Peoples To Headline Bay Area Benefit
Author: Anthony Springer Jr
While the latest Bay Area renaissance in Hip Hop was dominated by the “hyphy” craze, the northern end of the West Coast has always been active in its community and unified. The spirit of unity and community will continue June 25 when Dilated Peoples, Opio and Pep Love from the Hieroglyphics crew come together with other artists to support DJ RasCue.
The Bay Area DJ is in need of a kidney transplant. All proceeds from the show will go directly to DJ RasCue.
In addition to helping out the DJ, the benefit show also seeks to raise awareness about the millions of individuals in need of organ transplants and the importance of organ donation.
Since being placed on the US Kidney Transplant List, RasCue says in addition to the physical changes his body has gone through, the battle has taken a toll financially as well.
“Finding myself in this position so young I have really taken time to examine and fully appreciate, and cherish my life,” RasCue tells DX via statement. "But perhaps more importantly, I have learned how much it can really mean to a person when someone chooses organ donation.”
For fans in the area, the show takes place at the Temple Nightclub, located on 540 Howard Street in San Francisco.
For more information, visit Urban Umpires.
hiphopdx.com
While the latest Bay Area renaissance in Hip Hop was dominated by the “hyphy” craze, the northern end of the West Coast has always been active in its community and unified. The spirit of unity and community will continue June 25 when Dilated Peoples, Opio and Pep Love from the Hieroglyphics crew come together with other artists to support DJ RasCue.
The Bay Area DJ is in need of a kidney transplant. All proceeds from the show will go directly to DJ RasCue.
In addition to helping out the DJ, the benefit show also seeks to raise awareness about the millions of individuals in need of organ transplants and the importance of organ donation.
Since being placed on the US Kidney Transplant List, RasCue says in addition to the physical changes his body has gone through, the battle has taken a toll financially as well.
“Finding myself in this position so young I have really taken time to examine and fully appreciate, and cherish my life,” RasCue tells DX via statement. "But perhaps more importantly, I have learned how much it can really mean to a person when someone chooses organ donation.”
For fans in the area, the show takes place at the Temple Nightclub, located on 540 Howard Street in San Francisco.
For more information, visit Urban Umpires.
hiphopdx.com
More Details Emerge About Slaughterhouse Debut
Author: Salima Koroma
Last week rumors swirled about the status of Hip Hop super-group Slaughterhouse’s upcoming album [click to read]. But the group, which consists of Joe Budden , Joell Ortiz, Crooked I, and Royce Da 5’9” finally confirmed rumors of a July 7 release and has added a few more details about the project.
“We did an entire album in six days!” said Joell Ortiz in a statement. “When you genuinely love what you’re doing everything is effortless. It was like a long party. I can’t wait for the fans to experience this album.”
Producers StreetRunner, The Alchemist, and DJ Khalil were speculated to have a hand in the project. Not only did members of Slaughterhouse confirm these speculations, but they also announced that Mr. Porter (Kon Artis of D12 fame) will also produce tracks for the album.
The group was added to the Rock The Bells lineup and will join Nas, RZA, Common, and many others on tour next month.
"This group is really something special,” said Royce Da 5’9”, “and this summer I'm excited to show the world what we have to offer! If you thought that we were just gonna release a few tracks to the net and then disappear you are in for a very rude awakening.”
The upcoming album is currently untitled.
hiphopdx.com
Last week rumors swirled about the status of Hip Hop super-group Slaughterhouse’s upcoming album [click to read]. But the group, which consists of Joe Budden , Joell Ortiz, Crooked I, and Royce Da 5’9” finally confirmed rumors of a July 7 release and has added a few more details about the project.
“We did an entire album in six days!” said Joell Ortiz in a statement. “When you genuinely love what you’re doing everything is effortless. It was like a long party. I can’t wait for the fans to experience this album.”
Producers StreetRunner, The Alchemist, and DJ Khalil were speculated to have a hand in the project. Not only did members of Slaughterhouse confirm these speculations, but they also announced that Mr. Porter (Kon Artis of D12 fame) will also produce tracks for the album.
The group was added to the Rock The Bells lineup and will join Nas, RZA, Common, and many others on tour next month.
"This group is really something special,” said Royce Da 5’9”, “and this summer I'm excited to show the world what we have to offer! If you thought that we were just gonna release a few tracks to the net and then disappear you are in for a very rude awakening.”
The upcoming album is currently untitled.
hiphopdx.com
Grandmaster Flash Honored By UMA
Author: Edwin Ortiz
As one of Hip Hop’s most influential artists, Grandmaster Flash [click to read] has rightfully been given the recognition he’s deserved for a career that spans from the 1970’s to his latest release The Bridge [click to read]. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 alongside The Furious Five, Flash will add to his regiment of accolades with the UMA Living Legend Award.
The New York deejay will be presented with his award during the Urban Music Awards on July 17th at the Highline Ballroom in Manhattan. Jordan Kensington, founder of the UMA, explained why Flash was the right choice. “Flash is an absolute legend and he remains an inspiration to the Hip Hop culture all together by flying the flag from its inception to the success it has become today. The Urban Music Awards fans across countries even as far as Japan, Africa, United Kingdom, Dubai, Caribbean, and throughout America have voted Flash to receive this people’s choice award which goes to show how much of an impact Grandmaster Flash has made worldwide.”
With over 175,000 people across the world voting for the Bronx-native, Flash humbly stated, “I am honored to receive this award and I can’t wait to attend the awards show in July. The Urban Music Awards is different from all other awards shows because it represents the whole world.” Adding Flash, “Our music is main stream and we have to connect with our fans from all around the world to build an even bigger community so thank you to all my fans worldwide and the UMA for this opportunity.”
Tickets for the Urban Music Awards are on sale now and can be purchased at their official website www.urbanmusicawards.net.
hiphopdx.com
Dead Prez Pt. 2: It’s Bigger Than Hip-Hop
Turn Off The Radio, Vol. 3: Pulse Of The People, is the mixtape that dead prez hopes will stimulate the masses to action on June 23. Mixed by DJ Green Lantern, the effort is laced with features from Chuck D, Bun B, Styles P and the talented new recruit, Johnny Polygon. The listener is in for an audible revolution. This lyrical reformation will feed a ravenous Hip-Hop appetite. Borrowing Afya Ibomu’s idea that “food is consciousness,” Stic.Man expounds on the sentiment, “I would like to paraphrase her quote, music is consciousness.”
This elevated awareness will become more apparent on the third dead prez studio album Information Age that will be release later this year. “We’ll use the chemistry of sound to try to inspire and to share our journey of getting knowledge itself and growing—and everything under the sun. Stic.Man continues, “We created a new sound, a new energy working with a new producer named Dirk Pate out of Denver, CO. He had the sound, he had the bass, he had the futuristic funk that we needed to take our consciousness to the next level.”
As dead prez continues to challenge their skills to perfect their art form by creating mixtapes and albums their sound will continue to evolve. In the conclusion of their interview they show that they’ve been bonded by music but it’s still bigger than Hip-Hop.
AllHipHop.com: Is there a definitive release date for Information Age?
M1: We’re still working on that bad boy, but hopefully this year. Pulse of the People will be out June 23rd which is the album we’re working on with DJ Green Lantern; that’s going to be the prequel. That’ll be another stage in the development of us rounding out the sound of Dead Prez. A lot of our effort, just like the Turn Off The Radio is there to communicate with a whole street movement that’s about disconnecting with the kind of radio that doesn’t reflect what our reality is. The Turn Off The Radio vibe really came as a two-prong approach on getting music out to the street…We’ve upped it to the next level with DJ Green Lantern and came out with a super-powered, on steroids, joint that basically became this new album that we’re about to put out now.
AllHipHop.com: Is there a difference when you’re making a mixtape as opposed to making an album?
DJ Green Lantern: There’s definitely differences; the timeframe is probably the biggest difference. We did Pulse of the People, three or four days. It’s about spitting one song and [voicing your] mind what’s on your heart, and boom, you give it to them. That’s a mixtape; that’s its own energy…
Stic.Man: With an album you have a protracted amount of time to develop a theme, to edit a lot more to just build in a different kind of way—For us they are very much similar because we think conceptually when we do s**t. We like to create with a body of work that’s conceptual and cohesive. So, on some of our mixtapes, it’s gonna sound like an album anyway. That’s what people are going to get on Pulse Of The People.
AllHipHop.com: You’ve both released solo albums, Confidential and Manhood, as a group is it necessary to embrace solo expression?
M1: I’d say definitely… I think there’s an expression that’s unique unto ourselves. I don’t know if everybody wants to hear that s**t; I think it deserves to be expressed. That’s how you need a project like Confidential and mine. Learning from the art of production; because, Stic is a monster producer as well as Green and I’m a producer myself— Then trying to use our voices in the illest way to find what we can contribute to the whole. I think it is important just for the people to grow as artists. We go through the growth stages of refining our talent.
AllHipHop.com: Has dead prez discovered the essential element of what’s needed for a group to stay together and enjoy longevity?
M1: We’re still learning it. But, I can tell you this, when people ask what is it that helps us stick together is that, bigger than Hip-Hop is our slogan, bigger than Hip-Hop is a lifestyle of two Africans who have a common goal. [We’re] bound by political unity, will of action, being in the same boat trying to keep the ship afloat and understanding that we all want peace. At the end of that day, all together, that becomes much bigger than any entertainment or music industry process that we can ever be involved in. So, to me, music is the background, the underlay to what’s really happening and we can continue music for a long time…
AllHipHop.com: Has the recession impacted the way that you fund or donate to any charities/organizations that you’re affiliated with?
M1: To me it’s similar to voting. Every four years you’re supposed to vote for the President…To me that process happens every day. I cast my vote when I wake up in the morning and I decide to turn on the TV, or not to let my children engage in some backward educational process… To me, every vote we make is a strike for or against the system in a particular way. Not only does that influence me in what kind of contribution that I make towards organizations; but, everything is a contribution.
The system is on 24/7 it; it never shuts off. Either we feed it or we go about the business of dismantling it. So, every move that we make hopefully does that and not just one particular chance. Even in this particular time, we understand the recession as over-aching, long-reaching, before it was recognized in the system. We want to be freedom-loving, freedom-fighting people, who will do whatever it takes all the way down to the vote; just to win. So, there’s not one particular day or one particular cause.
AllHipHop.com: In a separate interview I did with DJ Green Lantern he spoke about a project you did with director Rick Cordero; what can you tell me about that?
DJ Green Lantern: It’s a series of songs in one video. It’s a little unorthodox. It’s a video encompassing around four or five songs in it. That’s not going to be edited and whatnot just yet.
M1: The digital aspect of the art is paramount right now because of the age that we live, the information age. The music with the images, or the snipe— the cross-sections of real life is tantamount to us moving forward to making the thing real palpable for the people. At the end of the day that’s why we take this video s**t so serious… That project will come in its time. We’re working on it now, we’re in the middle of it, these images—I think they’re really going to set the tone of the Pulse of The People in the right direction.
AllHipHop.com: What are your thoughts about being environmentally conscious and what green products are you taking advantage of?
M1: I take advantage of Green Lantern’s production. [laughs] I’m just kidding… One of my lines I recently wrote it, you can’t go green without that black and red. The reason why I say that is because it’s going to take power in order for us to really change it. Right now there is a huge—opportunistic green market—which is developing, at the hands of the government, which recognizes it’s a way to offer jobs. Capitalism is ruled by its wallet and its stomach. That’s what moves capitalism and I think that’s the reason why you see this whole green thing happening. I don’t think it’s because of any righteous conclusion that people have come to. I have to be aware of that. I don’t think that Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth was just a coincidence. It was a very convenient truth for government...
But, I think a lot of it is about changing our minds, not just by changing a light bulb. We need to change our minds…We have to be conscious about the fact that we’re going to be living here… So, we can’t clutter this place with things that won’t be biodegradable or things that will be toxic to our environment… We plan to package our albums in recycled paper and recycled materials. Even with this given age it helps us going green because there’s less of a waste factor in the whole thing. I think on the basic level that’s where that is.
AllHipHop.com: Is there anything else that you’d like to elaborate on?
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DJ Green Lantern: Pulse of The People, on June 23 it comes out— It’s going to be released and heavily marketed online, so all your online stores… It’s definitely going to be a physical presence. If you’re a dead prez fan like I’m a dead prez fan and you’ve been waiting for years for these guys to come back together and put their minds together and go in that studio and make some crazy ass music, now is the time, it’s coming out on June 23rd. Cop that! That’s what I got to say. Invasion!
M1: I’d like to say thank you, to AllHipHop, for wanting to hear what we got to say and wanting to print our words and let the world know.
allhiphop.com
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